Finance Business Partner Job at Goodman Masson (London)

Job Description

Our client is a world-renowned, independent policy institute based in London, dedicated to building a sustainably secure, prosperous, and just world through the advancement of international relations. Following a period of rapid growth, the organisation is currently undergoing an exciting phase of transformation—consolidating and simplifying their internal structures, modernising their financial systems, and refining their strategic business model. Goodman Masson are exclusively partnered with this prestigious institute to recruit for a high-calibre Finance Business Partner to join their dynamic central finance team. This role would suit an ACA qualified auditor looking to make their first move into industry or someone who has already established themselves as a qualified Finance Business Partner within the not for profit sector. The Opportunity Reporting directly to the Finance Director, you will act as a vital strategic partner to the institutes core international research programmes (covering Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East). This is not a traditional back-office accounting role; you will actively bridge the gap between central finance and research directors, driving a culture of financial accountability and empowering non-financial stakeholders to make data-driven strategic decisions.

Job Responsibility

Strategic Business Partnering: Build trusted relationships with budget holders and research colleagues, providing commercial acumen, financial insights, and expert analysis to improve financial performance
Financial Planning & Analysis: Lead the annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, and management reporting for dedicated programmes
Project & Grant Oversight: Oversee the financial health of complex research projects, ensuring accurate income recognition, monitoring variances, and ensuring strict compliance with complex funding/grant requirements
Commercial & Contract Management: Collaborate with the Contract Manager and Research Partnerships team to support project costing, ensure legal/financial terms are optimised, and manage audit processes for centre funding
Continuous Improvement: Play a key role in change projects to modernise procedures, enhance internal financial controls, and improve the efficiency and value-add of the finance function
Statutory Support: Assist with the preparation of annual statutory accounts, including necessary disclosures and detailed analysis.

Requirements

Fully qualified accountant (ACA, CIMA, ACCA or equivalent)
Background within either external audit or a Business Partnering role within a similar organisation
Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex financial metrics into clear, concise, and accessible insights for diverse, non-financial audiences.