Deputy Director – Financial Planning and Analysis & Commercial Strategy

Join to apply for the Deputy Director – Financial Planning and Analysis and Commercial Strategy role at University of Reading.

This is a full‑time, permanent role. Closing date: 23:59 on 17th December 2025. Interview dates: Wednesday 7 and Monday 12 January 2026. Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker Visa route, applicants requiring sponsorship should check their eligibility on the Home Office website; we will discuss visa routes only with candidates invited to interview.

Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Deputy Director will lead and develop a large team of qualified accountants, and will be responsible for leading financial planning and analysis for the University Group and providing a comprehensive financial reporting framework that drives high‑quality financial insight. The role will also provide commercial support for new opportunities and help to drive a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Responsibilities

• An accountancy qualification (e.g. ACCA, CIMA, ACA, CIPFA).
• Proven senior‑level experience in a large and complex organisation.
• Strong budgeting, financial planning and reporting skills in a large, complex organisation.
• Strong commercial acumen evidenced through improved bottom‑line performance.
• Experience delivering process and systems improvements, including automation, and managing change.

Benefits

32 days annual leave plus public holidays, a generous pension provision, and support for flexible working.

Contact

Emma Ashley, Director of Finance, e.ashley@reading.ac.uk

Alternative contact: Vin Wijeratne, Chief Financial Officer, v.wijeratne@reading.ac.uk

Commitment to diversity and inclusion

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job‑share, part‑time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Finance and Sales

Industries

• Higher Education