Head of Finance and Accounting

About us

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The University of Luxembourg is seeking an experienced and forward-looking finance leader to head its Finance and Accounting Department. Reporting directly to the Director of Administration and Finance, you will lead the University's Finance and Accounting Department and ensure the effective delivery of financial services in support of the University's academic, research and operational activities.

The role combines three key dimensions. You will lead the Finance and Accounting Department and its day-to-day operations, drive the continuous development and transformation of the Finance function through organisational, process and systems improvements, and support sound financial governance by building trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Success in this role requires strong financial expertise, excellent leadership skills, sound judgement and the ability to build credibility across a complex organisation.

The Head of Finance and Accounting reports directly to the Director of Administration and Finance.

Your role

Finance Leadership

• Lead the Finance and Accounting Department, ensuring high-quality, efficient and customer-oriented finance services
• Lead and develop managers and employees, fostering collaboration, accountability and continuous learning
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence across the department
• Support the Director of Administration and Finance in implementing the University's financial priorities
  

Finance Operations & Governance

• Lead the delivery of the University's core finance activities, including financial controlling, accounting, treasury, taxation, statutory reporting and public procurement within the department's scope of responsibility
• Ensure robust financial governance, effective internal controls and compliance with the applicable regulatory framework
• Lead the relationship with external auditors and coordinate statutory audit activities
• Drive the continuous improvement of financial reporting, processes and service delivery

Finance Development & Transformation

• Drive the integration and harmonisation of financial controlling activities across the University, working closely with Faculties, Interdisciplinary Centres and administrative services
• Lead finance-related organisational, process and systems improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency, transparency and service delivery
• Drive the development of harmonised financial processes and operating models across the Finance function
• Contribute to the continuous development of financial systems and digital solutions, including SAP

Stakeholder Management

• Build trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders and act as a credible partner on financial matters
• Support the Director of Administration and Finance by preparing financial analyses, reports and decision-support material for senior management and governance bodies, including the Finance Committee and the Board of Governors
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives that strengthen financial transparency, collaboration and institutional effectiveness
• Promote the highest standards of integrity, transparency and professional accountability

Your profile

• Master's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration or a related discipline
• At least ten years of progressively responsible leadership experience in Finance, Accounting and Financial Controlling within a complex organisation
• Demonstrated experience in leading organisational improvements, finance transformation initiatives and cross-functional projects
• Strong knowledge of financial governance, statutory reporting, internal controls and audit processes
• Professional accounting or audit qualifications (e.g. ACCA, CPA, Chartered Accountant, Réviseur d'Entreprises or equivalent) would be considered a strong asset
• Experience with ERP systems, ideally SAP, and modern financial reporting solutions
• Strong project management and stakeholder management skills
• Excellent communication and leadership capabilities with the ability to build trust across all organisational levels
• High level of integrity, professional credibility and sound judgement
• Excellent command of English and French. German and/or Luxembourgish would be considered an asset

We offer

• A modern, dynamic university with a personal and inclusive atmosphere. Multilingual and international character. Staff coming from more than 90 countries. Member of The Guild of European Research Intensive Universities
• An exceptional research environment, supported by skilled staff and high-quality equipment. Strong links to professional sectors and the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban campus with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and a wide range of non-academic partners including ministries, local governments, associations, and NGOs

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Permanent
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Belval Campus
• Internal Title: Head of central department
• Job Reference: UOL08339

.