Head Of Operational Finance

Head of Operational Finance

National Oceanography Centre, Southampton

Permanent

Full time (37 hours per week)

£62,062 - £68,272

Who are we?

We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK's centre of excellence for oceanographic sciences. We are a national research organisation, delivering integrated marine science and technology from the coast to the deep ocean.

We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community whose focus is on improving the world in which we live. Our work is balanced by our strong sense of purpose, values and behaviours and an unwavering commitment to a ‘one NOC’ approach.

We have a rich history dating back to 1949, and our future has never looked more exciting as we aim to be the world’s most innovative oceanographic institution.

About the role

The Head Of Operational Finance (HOOF) will be a pivotal figure in ensuring the financial health, stability, and sustainability of the company, while also spearheading process improvements to align with organisational strategy, growth, and profitability objectives. This role demands a keen focus on measuring compliance with policies and procedures, coupled with a commitment to reviewing and enhancing these practices to ensure best-in-class standards. The HOOF will maintain regular communication with all departments within the organisation to highlight their financial responsibilities.

The primary responsibility of the HOOF will be overseeing the financial operations of the organisation, ensuring that services support business needs and providing resilience and coverage for continuity. This includes guaranteeing that all financial processes and procedures adhere to best practices. The post holder must ensure that all accounting transactions are accurately recorded in line with UK Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (UK GAAP) and the Charity Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), with appropriate accruals and monthly reconciliation. Moreover, they will lead the organisation's tax matters and associated financial compliance, including VAT, ensuring timely and accurate returns to HMRC.

About you

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Head Of Operational Finance to join our dynamic team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to play a key role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of our financial reporting processes. We are looking for a qualified accountant who is highly motivated with drive, enthusiasm and commitment to make positive change to the ways of working at the NOC.

The individual will bring with them knowledge of best practice financial controls and process gained either through practice or in industry and be determined to bring this to action. You will be able to work at all levels, build good relationships with key stakeholders and be able translate complex financial concepts into simple language. Experience of Charity regulation and accounting, including taxation, would be advantageous.

Joining NOC means becoming part of a collaborative team dedicated to innovation and excellence. If you possess a strategic mindset, financial expertise, and a passion for driving organizational success, we invite you to apply for the position of Head Of Operational Finance and contribute to our continued growth.

Why the NOC?

We offer a generous set of benefits including 30 days annual leave, plus 3.5 local closure days and 8 public bank holidays, and a contributory Group Personal Pension Plan.

We promote an inclusive and supportive environment where our people can meet their full potential.

The NOC is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. There is a guaranteed interview scheme for suitable candidates with a disability and we welcome applications from ethnic minorities currently under-represented. The NOC is an Investors in People organisation.

Location

This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking.

The NOC has a hybrid working approach where for most positions staff can work from home up to 2 days per week. If you are interested in this position, but require a more flexible working arrangement, please contact the recruitment team using the contact details below.

We can support visa applications where required. For overseas applicants who are willing to move to the UK we may be able to offer financial support with relocation.

How to apply:

Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07355 676794.

Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.

Date advert posted: 18/03/2024

Closing date: 15/04/2024. Please note this vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.

Please note we are not accepting applications via recruitment agencies for this position.

Assessing applications

All applications to the NOC are reviewed by a real-life person, not a computer programme. Attached to our adverts you will find a ‘Job Description and Person Specification’ document which clearly sets out the criteria against which applications are assessed. Once assessed the most suitable candidates will be invited to interview.

If you have been selected for interview we will be in touch to arrange a time and date. If you haven’t been selected for interview we will let you know, although we may not be able to give detailed feedback to every applicant.