Head of Finance Service

Position description

The European Synchrotron, the ESRF, is an international research centre based in Grenoble, France.

Through its innovative engineering, pioneering scientific vision and a strong commitment from its 700 staff members, the ESRF is recognised as one of the top research facilities worldwide. Its particle accelerator produces intense X-ray beams that are used by thousands of scientists each year for experiments in diverse fields such as biology, medicine, environmental sciences, cultural heritage, materials science, and physics.

Supported by 19 countries, the ESRF is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diversity.

CONTEXT & JOB DESCRIPTION

Reporting to the Director of Administration, you hold a key position within our organisation. You contribute to major strategic orientations and ensure their translation into robust financial and budgetary frameworks.

As a trusted partner to the Directors, you support them in their strategic decision-making, while ensuring optimal use of resources, compliance with regulatory requirements, and the overall financial performance of the ESRF.

You oversee a team of 16 staff members and are seconded by three heads of units and an assistant. Your main responsibilities include:

• Ensuring financial robustness: You guarantee the reliability of financial statements, oversee budget monitoring, and ensure compliance with applicable financial rules and standards at the ESRF;
• Driving the long-term budget trajectory: You contribute to the preparation of 10-year financial plans, acting as a key interface between the Divisions and the Budget Unit. You provide financial visibility and secure long-term financial sustainability;
• Leading and structuring the finance function: You manage all activities related to accounting, budgeting, treasury, billing, and stores. Supported by three middle managers and an assistant, you demonstrate inclusive and empowering leadership, fostering engagement, skills development, and performance;
• Continuously improving processes and tools:
  As a proactive driver of change, you identify and implement organizational improvements and system enhancements to increase efficiency, reliability, and process fluidity;
• Reporting to management and governance bodies: You prepare the financial documents and you ensure the relevance, clarity, and quality of the financial analyses presented. You are in charge of the organisation and the minutes of the Administrative and Finance Committee, a strategic body that meets twice a year;
• Advising management: As a trusted advisor to the Directors, you support them in steering their budgets, particularly in relation to complex funding schemes such as European grants.

Qualifications

You hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Finance, Accounting or Management and bring 15 years of professional experience in finance, including a minimum of 5 years in a senior managerial position.

You combine strong technical expertise with strategic vision. You have proven experience in financial accounting, cost accounting, budgeting, treasury and banking relations, as well as a solid understanding of relevant legal and business frameworks.

Recognized for your leadership and your ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, you thrive in complex, international environments. You demonstrate rigor, analytical depth, and sound judgment in decision-making.

You are comfortable leveraging digital tools and financial systems to improve performance and efficiency.

Fluency in English and French is essential.

If you are motivated by challenges and eager to contribute to a world-class research infrastructure, we encourage you to apply.

Application instructions

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