Cathy Henderson, Financial Controller

Cathy works as a Financial Controller in the Treasury Office. Having previously worked at Lady Margaret Hall and St John’s College for Oxford University, she has now been working at Univ for just under a year. 

What did you do before working at Univ?
My early career began in the City of London at Coopers & Lybrand followed by Goldman Sachs. I then moved to Oxfordshire and started a company in Finance and IT whilst raising my three children.  I had always wanted to work for the University of Oxford and joined Lady Margaret Hall in 2015.  I loved my seven years working for LMH and fulfilled several roles within the Finance Team before moving to St John’s College as Finance Manager and then finally on to Univ.

What does being a Financial Controller involve?
It is a very varied role which involves working with all departments across college. I am here to lead the continuous improvement of the College’s financial processes and systems to ensure, that as a college, we are financially efficient, accurate and risk aware. In practice this means I work to ensure we are all “singing off the same hymn sheet” when it comes to managing financial information. It has been really beneficial to gain experience from working at other colleges as it has given me insight into their processes and procedures and how to implement them successfully.

How did you adapt to moving between three different colleges for Oxford University?
When working for different colleges, you realise that all colleges are fundamentally dealing with the same challenges and decisions but each with their own unique approach. Starting at the first women’s college, which doesn’t have the untold wealth of the others, stood me in very good stead. When finances are constrained, you have to run a very tight ship and your processes have to be well defined, clearly communicated and adhered to by everyone.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced? Do you have any favourite moments from your time at Univ?
The biggest challenge initially was finding my way around the college and learning where each department resides and who is who. However, even from the day of my interview, I was struck by how friendly Univ is as a college. Everybody says “hello”, welcomes you with a smile and is always happy to help when asked. The coffee mornings, Master’s breakfasts and college lunches really help to make you feel part of a wonderful, supportive community. The Treasury team, like many others across the College, has no quiet period. The summer is our busiest time as the financial year ends on 31  July, and thereafter it is full steam ahead preparing the accounts, going through the audit and producing the financial statements for Governing Body, all before the year is out.

How do you unwind after a hard day at work?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and am very fortunate to have them nearby.  I blame my daughters for introducing me to The Legend of Zelda, as I am now an addicted video gamer, and all chores are abandoned. Thankfully I have finished Tears of the Kingdom but am looking forward to Echoes of Wisdom as it gives me Nintendo DS retro vibes! I also enjoy a bingeworthy box set, puzzles, sculpture, tennis and golf. I am planning on taking up Padel Tennis too, anyone want to join me?

Do you have any advice for students at Univ?
Talk to us in the Treasury. We may be seen as an intimidating team who is only ever asking for money, but we are very much here to help. Come and speak with us. We can advise on payment plans, other forms of financial assistance and budgeting. We are a friendly bunch and there is often cake!

Published: 5 August 2024

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