Robert Walters are delighted to be partnering with SKAO in their global search for a Chief Financial Officer to join their executive team, at a pivotal moment in the organisation's journey. Please note - all enquiries and applications MUST come through Robert Walters to be considered. Global applications welcome.
As SKAO embarks on the transition from construction to full operation of the world's largest radio telescope, this high-profile leadership role offers you the chance to shape the financial future of a truly global scientific endeavour.
You will be responsible for leading finance, procurement, ERP, and UK facilities teams across three continents, ensuring robust governance and compliance while supporting cutting-edge research infrastructure.
This is an exceptional opportunity to work with international partners, government members, and diverse stakeholders, all within an environment that values flexibility, inclusivity, and professional growth. If you are passionate about making a lasting impact in science and technology on a global scale, SKAO provides the platform for your expertise to shine.
What you'll do:
- Provide strategic financial advice and guidance to the Director General and senior managers to support organisational objectives.
- Deliver comprehensive financial reports and formal presentations to the SKAO Council and sub-committees, ensuring clarity and transparency in governance.
- Develop strong working relationships with external partners including member states, peer organisations, banks, auditors, advisors, contractors, and suppliers to foster effective collaboration.
- Drive cross-functional cooperation across all locations to enhance financial planning processes throughout the organisation.
- Oversee budgetary control and management practices to ensure value-for-money while maintaining operational excellence across the Observatory.
- Lead business continuity planning for Finance, Procurement, ERP, and UK Facilities functions by conducting risk analysis and implementing mitigation strategies.
- Manage SKAO's insurance strategy and portfolio while overseeing claims processes to safeguard organisational assets.
- Ensure financial systems are robust, compliant with best practice standards, and scalable for future growth initiatives.
- Maintain tax compliance and regulatory adherence across all relevant jurisdictions to minimise organisational risk.
- Direct all aspects of financial activities including accounting, cash flow management, treasury operations, audit processes, payroll administration, pensions oversight, procurement actions (including complex contracts), ERP system sponsorship (including e-Procurement), and facilities management for UK headquarters.
What you bring:
- A member of an internationally recognised professional accounting body. with extensive experience in senior management roles within complex, global, multinational organisations.
- Demonstrated success operating in international contexts-building effective working relationships with internal teams as well as external stakeholders from diverse national and cultural backgrounds.
- Exceptional communication skills with commercial acumen-able to deliver clear business writing and operate effectively at strategic board level or equivalent settings.
- Proven ability as a strategic leader who brings analytical thinking alongside an enquiring mindset-capable of identifying opportunities for change that align with organisational needs now and into the future.
- Technical expertise in financial management including IFRS-based accounting standards; knowledge of international employment tax rules; contract law proficiency; advanced skills in budgeting, forecasting, reporting; familiarity with financial controls; risk management experience; hands-on approach to financial analysis.
- Experience managing procurement activities within an international setting-including complex construction contracts as well as operational procurement efficiency measures.
- Understanding of foreign currency transactions along with associated risks relevant to global operations.
- Advanced IT skills coupled with openness to adopting new technologies that drive process improvements across finance functions.
- Ability to collaborate effectively at both operational and strategic levels-delivering excellent services through distributed teams while contributing meaningfully to long-term planning initiatives.
- High integrity combined with commitment to good governance principles-demonstrating openness alongside dedication to equality, diversity, sustainability-and adaptability as a flexible team player.
What sets this company apart:
SKAO stands out as one of the world's most ambitious scientific collaborations-uniting governments from around the globe in pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries through radio astronomy. As an International Organisation headquartered in Cheshire but operating across three continents (UK, Australia, South Africa), SKAO offers unparalleled opportunities for professional growth within a supportive network committed to diversity and inclusion. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements designed to accommodate personal circumstances while enabling meaningful contributions on a global stage.
The culture is built on shared values of openness, respect for different perspectives, commitment to sustainability-and above all-a passion for advancing human knowledge through science. Joining SKAO means becoming part of a visionary community where your expertise can help shape history while enjoying access to world-class resources and collaborative networks.
What's next:
If you are ready to make your mark on one of the world's most exciting scientific projects while advancing your career at executive level-this is your moment!
Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates
