CFO

4717380
  • Job type

    Permanent
  • Location

    Falmouth
  • Working Pattern

    Full-time
  • Specialism

    Senior Finance Qualified
  • Industry

    Education & Training
  • Pay

    £good + excellent benefits
  • Closing date

    12 Oct 2025

CFO Falmouth University - Commercial FD /

Your new company

Hays Senior Finance are delighted to be partnering with Falmouth University, in the appointment of a strategic and commercially focused Chief Finance Officer.
Recognised as a pioneering institution, at the forefront of the nexus between creativity and technology, Falmouth University’s mission is to deliver exceptional higher education and research that fuels the future economy, while generating sustainable opportunities for all.

With values rooted in creativity, achievement, respect and collaboration, Falmouth University has fostered a culture that is inclusive, innovative and commercially aware.

Your new role

This is a high-impact leadership role reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor & Chief Executive. As Chief Finance Officer, you will own the finance function and will :

  • Lead the development and delivery of financial strategy aligned with university priorities
  • Oversee financial operations, planning, and business intelligence, optimising performance
  • Drive revenue-generating initiatives, investment activity, and external partnerships to enhance Falmouth’s market position and financial sustainability
  • Modernise financial systems and controls to enhance transparency and agility
  • Shape the future operating model of the finance function, embedding innovation, digital transformation, and a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Provide strategic insight and partnership to senior leaders across the University, encouraging entrepreneurial thinking

What you'll need to succeed
You’ll be a professionally qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with :
  • Significant experience in financial leadership within large, complex organisations
  • Strong commercial acumen and strategic thinking, with the ability to influence at executive level
  • Proven ability to lead transformation, modernisation and change management
  • Excellent communication, analytical and interpersonal skills
  • A collaborative leadership style and commitment to talent development, diversity, and sustainability
  • You’ll be adaptable, forward-thinking, and passionate about aligning financial strategy with institutional mission and values


What you'll get in return

  • Strategic and commercially focused leadership role with real influence

  • Scope to shape the financial future of a bold, innovative university

  • The opportunity to take a high profile role, working closely with the local Cornish economy and community

  • Highly competitive salary and benefits package

  • Supportive, creative and inclusive culture

    What you need to do now


If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

Apply for this job

Talk to Jonathan Green, the specialist consultant managing this position

Located in Exeter, 1st Floor, 11 - 15 Dix's Field, Telephone 01392 348 871
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