The role

This senior role is of pivotal importance in shaping the future of the University through expert leadership in strategy, performance, and data-driven decision-making. You will be based in our professional Finance Department on the Exton Park campus in Chester city centre.

You will

Lead institution-wide strategic planning, providing expert information and advice to senior colleagues to support long-term decision-making.
Champion a unified, University-wide approach to Business Intelligence, including programmes that enhance data literacy and improve data quality and governance, and the development of planning/data communities of practice across professional services.
Provide expert analysis and recommendations to the leadership team, drawing on student, staff, and financial data, market intelligence, environmental scanning, and scenario modelling.
Partner with Faculties, Finance and Academic Services to develop and maintain predictive models for student number targets and their financial implications, supporting business planning and resource allocation.

What you will bring

The ideal candidate will have excellent attention to detail, proven technical accounting experience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to providing outstanding service.

Essential skills and experience:

Significant experience in a planning role
Experience of working in Higher Education or similar environment
Advanced data analysis skills
Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to build strong working relationships.
Educated to degree level

Desirable skills and experience:

Experience of managing risk management and business continuity processes
Higher Degree or equivalent

What we offer

Generous annual leave entitlement and pension scheme
A supportive and flexible working environment
Hybrid working, with three days a week based in our Finance office in Chester.
Opportunities for training and professional development
Access to staff discounts and wellbeing services

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace.

Please go to the University of Chester's job page (https://jobs.chester.ac.uk/vacancy.aspx?ref=1763-25) for more information on the role and how to apply. Applications MUST be made via the University's online recruitment system.

Interviews will take in Chester on Tuesday 3rd February 2026

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £69,488.00-£73,708.00 per year

Benefits:

Bereavement leave
Company pension
Cycle to work scheme
Enhanced maternity leave
Enhanced paternity leave
Free flu jabs
Free parking
Gym membership
Health & wellbeing programme
On-site gym
On-site parking
Sick pay
Work from home

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Chester CH1 4BJ

Application deadline: 20/01/2026
Reference ID: 1763-25

UNIVERSITY OF CHESTER

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Director of Strategic Planning and Performance