Interim Chief Finance Officer / Finance Director

Anderson Quigley is delighted to be partnering once again with University Academy 92 (UA92) on the appointment of either an Interim CFO or an Interim FD, depending on the calibre of available talent in the interim finance market.

Terms:

This is a 6 month contract, based primarily in Manchester with 2-3 days expected on-site across multiple sites, and a minimum 4 day working week (although full time is preferred). An early December start (or sooner) is essential to allow for a handover with the incumbent.

Overview:

UA92 is looking for an experienced and credible interim finance leader to provide stability, leadership, and assurance through a key transition period. Reporting to the CEO, the Interim Chief Finance Officer or Finance Director (depending on level appointed to) will oversee the entirety of the finance and risk functions, ensuring continuity of operations, effective management of resources, and strategic financial planning.

You will play a key role in sustaining robust financial controls, supporting the leadership and executive teams and Board with accurate forecasting, and maintaining confidence in UA92’s financial governance and performance. This is a hands on and visible leadership role, balancing day to day operational oversight with the opportunity to contribute to ongoing strategic projects.

Working closely with senior colleagues including the Executive Dean and Chief of Strategy and Student Life, you will ensure a seamless financial operation during the handover period and beyond. Additionally, you will also manage and support a small but capable finance team, provide mentorship and direction, and foster strong collaborative relationships across the institution and with external partners, including Lancaster University.

Essential Criteria:

We are looking for a qualified accountant (through relevant UK bodies) with extensive previous experience as a Finance Director or Chief Finance Officer. And in particular, for this interim appointment, previous Higher Education sector experience is essential.

You must also bring a strong grasp of financial governance, risk management, and reporting, alongside a collaborative leadership style and the ability to influence confidently at executive and board level. Also essential is the ability to combine commercial awareness with a values led approach, and to maintain financial stability while supporting strategic projects and change.

Next Steps:

Please contact Eva Tomka or Akhil Yerneni to find out more.