Reference Code - 8429
University of the West of Scotland (UWS), a large, socially driven multi-campus institution with origins dating back to 1897, is seeking an exceptional Director of Finance to provide strategic financial leadership at a pivotal moment in the University's journey. With five campuses across Scotland and London, over 24,000 students drawn from more than 100 nationalities, income of £163 million, and a bold Strategy 2030 focused on transforming communities through research and education, UWS is an anchor institution with real national and global reach.
The University is seeking a proven financial leader to join the Vice-Principal Finance & Infrastructure's senior team and take strategic ownership of its finance and procurement functions. Reporting to the Vice-Principal Finance & Infrastructure and acting as a trusted adviser to the Vice-Chancellor's Executive and Court committees, you will develop and execute the University's financial strategy, ensure long-term financial sustainability, and maintain the highest standards of financial governance and reporting. You will lead a professional community of approximately 30 colleagues across Finance and Procurement.
We are seeking an experienced leader with a proven track record of senior financial leadership in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment. You will be a qualified accountant with the strategic acumen to deliver robust financial planning and performance management, and the leadership capability to build and inspire high-performing teams. As comfortable providing assurance to governing bodies and external regulators as you are partnering with academic and professional colleagues across five campuses, you will bring the personal authority, commercial awareness, and collegial instinct that this role demands.
This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of a University ranked 2nd in Scotland and 26th in the world for reducing inequalities, and internationally recognised for the quality of its research and education. If you are ready to bring financial leadership with genuine social purpose — and to play a central role in an institution that exists to make a difference — we would very much like to hear from you.
For details of the appointment, including further information about the job description, person specification, and how to apply, please click the 'Request More Information' button below to access the Candidate Brief
For informal inquiries please contact Ellie Beveridge at ellie.beveridge@perrettlaver.com
The closing date for applications is 09:00 am BST on Monday 1st June 2026.
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