Job Summary

To work individually and as part of the Governance, Infrastructure and Sustainability team (GIST), to carry out effective review and analysis of the financial health and governance of an allocated portfolio of institutions.  To provide advice and support on financial, governance and wider policy matters to the sectors, Scottish Government and other internal and external stakeholders

GIST is responsible for monitoring and reporting on the financial health of institutions in a timely manner so it can be used to inform SFC operations. It is also responsible for building strong relationships with institutions and holding them to account and supporting them in their effective financial management, long-term financial planning, budgeting and forecasting. GIST is also responsible for leading on SFC’s capital investment projects and programmes. This is to ensure that our colleges and universities have appropriate buildings and estates to deliver SFC’s vision for the sector, and they make a significant contribution towards Net Zero and other responses to the climate emergency set by the Scottish Government.

Key Responsibilities
* Effectively manage workload arising from an allocated portfolio of institutions and designated lead specialism(s).
* Undertake effective review and analysis of financial health for an allocated portfolio of institutions in full compliance with professional accountancy principles and practices (Statement of Recommended Practice etc.), SFC policy and strategy, and Scottish Government financial guidance (e.g. the Scottish Public Finance Manual). This includes, as necessary, seeking expert external advice from specialists – e.g. legal advisors – to help inform recommendations and proposed actions.
* Draft concise and impactful reports and provide any other appropriate information in a timely manner to the Executive Team, SFC Board, Council and its committees, on the financial health and governance of an allocated portfolio of institutions. This is to inform SFC operations and ensure that the Council and key stakeholders are aware of the developing landscape of the sectors, including any specific concerns.
* Provide authoritative financial and governance advice to SFC, the sectors, and the Scottish Government . Share and promote good practice, for example, in relation to: college severance guidance; disposals of assets which have been paid for with money from the taxpayer; adherence to FE/HE governance codes; and the interpretation of government accounting and budgetary guidance.
* Through developing a business partnering approach, build strong relationships with institutions and support them in their effective financial management, long-term financial planning, budgeting and forecasting. This also includes: * supporting and challenging institutions’ financial business cases and investment appraisals.
* working with SFC colleagues (particularly the Access, Learning & Outcomes team) to support institutions in finding solutions to complex business issues.
* deepening our capacity for explanation and analysis to enhance our understanding of institutions and options available for the future.

* Keep up to date on changes in technical accounting developments covering UK accounting as well as auditing standards and governance codes; also represent SFC in technical accounting meetings with institutions, other UK funding bodies, auditors and other key stakeholders.
* Represent SFC in negotiations and discussions with external bodies on matters concerning sector financial health and governance, in relation to the allocated portfolio of institutions.


Person specification

It is important through your CV / Cover Letter that you give evidence of proven experience of each of the following essential criteria:

Essential Criteria

* Fully qualified accountant. (CCBA / ACCA / CIMA / CIPFA)
* Good understanding of business analysis, planning, budgeting, audit and financial and non-financial control issues.
* Understanding of the Scottish and UK Government budgeting and accounting requirements and guidance.
* Understanding of technical accounting issues, with up-to-date knowledge of UK accounting and auditing standards and governance codes.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - ability to analyse, interpret and communicate complex financial and governance issues to those with a non-financial background.
* Effective oral and written communication skills.
* Diligent and organised to manage self and to contribute to the work of team to meet changing organisational priorities.
* Excellent people skills and track record in forming and maintaining effective working relationships with staff across a wide range of stakeholders including education institutions and government bodies.
* Excellent numeracy skills.
* Able to establish and maintain good relationships with networks of key contacts


both internally and externally. 
* Proficient in desk-top software packages particularly Advanced Excel skills.


Additional information

Location
SFC offers hybrid working for its employees. This means that whilst the role is based at our Edinburgh office, there is substantial opportunity to work from home most of the time. As a rule of thumb SFC expects that a minimum of three days a month in the office (on average) will achieve the benefits of its hybrid approach, however it is for the employee and their line manager to agree the balance between home and workplace working - determined primarily by business need. Please be aware that this role can only be worked from within the UK and not overseas. Relocation expenses are not available.

Key Rewards and Benefits
Normal full-time hours of work are 35 per week. We will consider flexible working arrangements. A...