Royal Veterinary College

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is the UK’s largest and longest-established independent veterinary school and a Member Institution of the University of London. Earlier this year, the RVC was awarded University title. The RVC offers an impressive range of undergraduate, postgraduate and CPD programmes, with a student population of over 2,500. We have over 150 research-active academic staff, involved in programmes that address both basic and clinical problems in the biosciences, with applications across human and veterinary medicine. Our programmes have international appeal and attract students who go on to become practicing veterinarians, research scientists, veterinary nurses and leaders in industry and government. We are ranked first in the world in the QS subject rankings, were awarded TEF Silver (with Gold for student outcomes) in 2023, and 88% of our research was rated as world-leading in the most recent REF exercise.

Beside our two main academic campuses, our facilities include the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, the largest small animal referral hospital in Europe, two first opinion small animal practices and we offer both first opinion and referral equine services. The RVC is also home to the London BioScience Innovation Centre in Camden, a wholly-owned subsidiary and London’s first centre for early-stage life science companies, as well as a charitable arm, the Animal Care Trust. We have a turnover of £120M and are currently undertaking a major estates development programme, which will include a rebuild of our small animal referral hospital.

Following the acquisition of University title, we are reviewing our organisational structures and, as part of this, we are now seeking to appoint an Interim Director of Finance on an initial twelve-month basis whilst we finalise our plans. The Director will lead our Finance Department and will support the Chief Financial Officer (a newly created part-time role) in progressing key strategic developments. The Interim Director will report to the CFO, with a dotted line to the President and Principal, and will be a member of the RVC’s Executive Committee.

Strong candidates for the role will bring experience of successful management of financial resources in the context of an organisation of some complexity and scale, strategic and business acumen of the highest order, and excel in people leadership and management. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to influence and work collaboratively with senior colleagues across the organisation will also be key. Whilst it is desirable that candidates have previous experience of working in higher education, it is not essential.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the RVC on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference IATALD. Alternatively, telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours).

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis so early expressions of interest are encouraged, and to be received no later than noon on Friday 24^th November, 2023.