Chief Financial Officer

Cambridge Enterprise
Chief Financial Officer

Cambridge / Hybrid

Pure Executive is delighted to be exclusively partnering with Cambridge Enterprise to appoint a Chief Financial Officer.

Cambridge Enterprise is the commercialisation arm of the University of Cambridge, supporting academics, researchers and innovators to translate world‑leading research into real‑world impact. The organisation manages one of the UK’s most significant university IP portfolios, supports licensing to industry, invests in new venture creation, and oversees consultancy activities on behalf of the University.

This is a rare and compelling opportunity for an accomplished finance leader to play a pivotal role within a globally respected innovation ecosystem.

The RoleReporting to the Chief Executive, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will lead the finance function and act as a strategic partner to the Executive Leadership Team and Boards. This is a senior, high‑profile role with responsibility for developing and delivering the financial strategy that underpins Cambridge Enterprise’s long‑term growth, impact and sustainability.

Leading a finance team of seven (via a Head of Finance), the CFO will balance strategic influence with operational excellence, ensuring robust financial governance while enabling innovation across a complex and entrepreneurial organisation.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver the group financial strategy in alignment with Cambridge Enterprise’s mission and multi‑year investment plans.
Attend Board meetings, present quarterly financial reports and analysis, and support the CEO on strategic initiatives. Act as Company Secretary for the Group.
Oversee budgeting, forecasting, audit, tax planning and compliance, ensuring robust financial governance.
Lead business modelling activities and the valuation of equity holdings across a portfolio of 130+ companies.
Build and inspire a high‑performing finance team, embedding a culture of continuous improvement and development.
Act as a key interface with University of Cambridge senior leaders and finance teams.
Oversee finance systems and support the transition to Sage Intacct and Payhawk.About YouYou will be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant experience operating at Finance Director or CFO level, and will bring:

A strong track record of strategic financial leadership within complex organisations
Experience presenting to Boards and senior stakeholders
Commercial acumen and the ability to develop robust business and investment cases
Gravitas, credibility and excellent interpersonal skills
A collaborative, solutions‑focused leadership style with high emotional intelligenceExperience within a university, higher education, research or innovation‑led environment, and/or exposure to equity portfolios or unpredictable revenue streams, would be advantageous.

Why Join?This role offers the opportunity to operate at the intersection of academia, innovation and commercial enterprise—helping shape the financial future of an organisation that delivers meaningful global impact