About this role
What does it take to build a financially sustainable university that is also bold enough to do things differently?
Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking Director of Finance to help shape the financial future of one of Scotland's most distinctive universities.
As Scotland's largest modern university, GCU has built a strong reputation for widening access, delivering career-focused education and creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds. Our ambitions, however, are not simply to build on that success. We want to push the boundaries of what a modern university can achieve, developing new approaches to education, research, innovation and partnership that respond to the changing needs of society.
We want to build a university that is financially resilient, commercially aware and confident in pursuing new opportunities. An institution that makes bold but informed decisions, invests in its people and infrastructure, and has the financial capability to turn ambitious ideas into lasting impact.
With a new Strategy 2035 in development, this is an opportunity to help shape the financial foundations of a university determined to challenge convention and demonstrate what modern higher education can achieve.
The opportunity
Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Director of Finance will provide strategic and operational financial leadership, supporting the University's Executive Team, Court and senior academic leadership in making informed, confident and sustainable decisions.
The successful candidate will lead financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, controls and assurance, ensuring that the University has the financial insight and infrastructure required to deliver its strategic ambitions.
This is not simply a role concerned with financial stewardship. We are looking for someone who can help the University think differently about how it uses its resources, supports innovation and develops a more agile, commercially aware and sustainable operating environment.
You will play an important part in strengthening financial business partnering, modernising systems and processes, supporting major investment decisions and developing a high-performing finance function that is recognised for its expertise, responsiveness and contribution to institutional success.
About you
We are seeking a professionally qualified finance leader with substantial experience of operating at a senior level within a complex organisation. You will bring strong financial management and governance expertise, sound commercial judgement and the ability to translate complex financial information into clear, practical advice.
Just as importantly, you will be an effective and credible leader of people, able to build trusted relationships, challenge constructively and create an environment where colleagues are encouraged to develop, innovate and contribute.
Experience within higher education would be welcome, although is not essential. We are equally interested in candidates from other complex, regulated and purpose-led organisations who can bring fresh perspectives and transferable expertise.
This is an opportunity to make a lasting contribution to a university that is ambitious about its future and determined to demonstrate what modern higher education can achieve.
How to apply
Glasgow Caledonian University is working in partnership with Alumni Global on this appointment. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and we welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
For a confidential discussion, further information and details of how to apply, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.
Closing date: 27th November 2026