We are seeking an experienced and proactive Accounts Manager to join the Finance team of a leading institution, based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. This is a key role supporting a large and complex general ledger and research grants portfolio within a dynamic, research-intensive environment.
Reporting to the Department Finance Manager, you will provide high-quality accounts management support, working closely with budget holders and senior staff to ensure robust financial control and informed decision-making across departments.
This is a fixed-term contract to start as soon as possible until Sept 2026. Working hours are full-time across Monday-Friday and hybrid working will be available.
Key Responsibilities
*Provide comprehensive accounts management services, from resolving routine queries to supporting month-end and year-end close
*Monitor and reconcile general ledger accounts, ensuring budget holders manage resources efficiently and effectively
*Work with the Finance Manager and senior colleagues to review budgets, identify risks such as forecast overspends, and propose solutions
*Communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial staff
*Liaise with Principal Investigators on budgets, expenditure forecasts, and pipeline grant applications
*Interpret and apply funder and programme terms and conditions to budgets and expenditure, providing expert advice
*Support research grant applications, including project and grant costing when required
*Assist with debt collection and resolve related queries promptly
*Identify opportunities for process improvement within the finance team and support their implementation
*Line management of a small team, including setting priorities and allocating work
*Deputise for the Department Finance Manager as required
Person Specification
Essential
*Bachelor’s degree or AAT Level 4 qualification (or equivalent)
*Proven experience in a busy accounts environment
*Strong IT skills, particularly Excel and Microsoft Office
*Experience supporting general ledger and financial processes
*Ability to manage competing deadlines and prioritise workload effectively
*Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to explain financial information to non-finance colleagues
Desirable
*Previous line management experience
*Experience in higher education, the public sector, or a non-profit environment
*Experience with research grants, budgeting, or finance systems such as CUFS (or similar)