Senior Financial Analyst - ref. d6190203
Scottish Funding Council Edinburgh
The Scottish Funding Council is Scotland’s tertiary education and research authority. Our ambition is to make Scotland an outstanding place to learn, educate, research, and innovate – now and for the future. So, naturally, we have a clear focus on recruiting the best people and developing them throughout their career.
We invest around £2 billion every year, and our funding enables colleges and universities to provide life-changing opportunities for over half a million people.
We are seeking a Senior Financial Analyst to work individually and as part of the Governance, Infrastructure and Sustainabilty team (GIST), to carry out effective review and analysis of the financial health and governance of an allocated portfolio of institutions.To provide advice and support on financial, governance and wider policy matters to the sectors, Scottish Government and other internal and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities- Effectively manage workload arising from an allocated portfolio of institutions and designated lead specialism(s).
- Undertake effective review and analysis of financial health for an allocated portfolio of institutions in full compliance with professional accountancy principles and practices (Statement of Recommended Practice etc.), SFC policy and strategy, and Scottish Government financial guidance (e.g. the Scottish Public Finance Manual). This includes, as necessary, seeking expert external advice from specialists – e.g. legal advisors – to help inform recommendations and proposed actions.
- Draft concise and impactful reports and provide any other appropriate information in a timely manner to the Executive Team, SFC Board, Council and its committees, on the financial health and governance of an allocated portfolio of institutions. This is to inform SFC operations and ensure that the Council and key stakeholders are aware of the developing landscape of the sectors, including any specific concerns.
- Provide authoritative financial and governance advice to SFC, the sectors, and the Scottish Government . Share and promote good practice, for example, in relation to: college severance guidance; disposals of assets which have been paid for with money from the taxpayer; adherence to FE/HE governance codes; and the interpretation of government accounting and budgetary guidance.
- Through developing a business partnering approach, build strong relationships with institutions and support them in their effective financial management, long-term financial planning, budgeting and forecasting. This also includes:
- supporting and challenging institutions’ financial business cases and investment appraisals.
- working with SFC colleagues (particularly the Access, Learning & Outcomes team) to support institutions in finding solutions to complex business issues.
- deepening our capacity for explanation and analysis to enhance our understanding of institutions and options available for the future.
- Keep up to date on changes in technical accounting developments covering UK accounting as well as auditing standards and governance codes; also represent SFC in technical accounting meetings with institutions, other UK funding bodies, auditors and other key stakeholders.
- Represent SFC in negotiations and discussions with external bodies on matters concerning sector financial health and governance, in relation to the allocated portfolio of institutions.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
It is important through your CV / Cover Letter that you give evidence of proven experience of each of the following essential criteria:
Essential: Fully qualified accountant (CCBA or equivalent).
Good understanding of business analysis, planning, budgeting, audit and financial and non-financial control issues.Understanding of the Scottish and UK Government budgeting and accounting requirements and guidance.
Understanding of technical accounting issues, with up-to-date knowledge of UK accounting and auditing standards and governance codes.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - ability to analyse, interpret and communicate complex financial and governance issues to those with a non-financial background.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Diligent and organised to manage self and to contribute to the work of team to meet changing organisational priorities.
Excellent people skills and track record in forming and maintaining effective working relationships with staff across a wide range of stakeholders including education institutions and government bodies.
Excellent numeracy skills.
Able to establish and maintain good relationships with networks of key contacts both internally and externally.
Proficient in desk-top software packages particularly Advanced Excel skills.
Desirable:
Understanding of current governance, leadership and management (including financial management) and other relevant issues in further and higher education.
Experience in, and management of, business analysis, finance, and financial and management systems.
Sufficient post qualification experience to demonstrate the necessary level of understanding and professional judgement required for the role
Good understanding of operational practices in finance departments.
Understanding of Government budgeting and accounting requirements and guidance.
Comprehensive understanding of public sector and the role of an NDPB.
Knowledge of education institutions.
Knowledge of current employment law and procurement issues.
Evidence of continuous personal and professional development and its application in the workplace.
Previous experience of finance business partnering.
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