Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Thomas Skeen is an accomplished finance executive with over a decade of experience in the public sector. As the Director of Finance at Queen Mary University of London, he is responsible for overseeing the institution's financial strategy, budgeting, and reporting processes. With a strong focus on strategic financial management, Skeen leverages his expertise in areas such as treasury, pensions, and chief accountancy to drive organizational growth and efficiency.
Experience Summary
Current Role
Since August 2022, Skeen has served as the Director of Finance at Queen Mary University of London, a leading research-intensive university in the United Kingdom. In this role, he is responsible for managing the university's financial resources, ensuring financial compliance, and supporting the institution's strategic objectives. Skeen's leadership has been instrumental in optimizing financial processes, enhancing transparency, and aligning the university's finances with its long-term goals.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Skeen held various finance leadership positions at Haringey Council, where he demonstrated his versatility and expertise. As the Assistant Director of Finance (Deputy S151 Officer), he played a crucial role in overseeing the council's financial management, budgeting, and reporting activities. Earlier, he served as the Head of Pensions, Treasury, and Chief Accountant, as well as the Head of Pensions, where he made significant contributions to improving the council's financial performance and compliance.
Skeen's career journey also includes experience in the private sector, having served as the Treasury Manager at Prometheus Global Media and the Investment Finance Manager at the London Borough of Ealing. These roles allowed him to broaden his expertise and gain valuable insights into the financial management practices of various organizations.
Academic Background
Skeen holds a bachelor's degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Leeds, where he graduated with honors. His academic achievements and specialized training have equipped him with a strong foundation in financial analysis, strategic planning, and regulatory compliance.
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic financial management
- Treasury and cash flow optimization
- Pension fund administration and investment
- Budgeting and financial reporting
- Financial analysis and compliance
- Project management and change leadership
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Skeen has demonstrated a track record of driving positive financial outcomes for the organizations he has served. At Haringey Council, he played a pivotal role in improving the council's financial stability and transparency, leading to enhanced financial performance and better resource allocation. In his current role at Queen Mary University of London, Skeen is leveraging his expertise to support the university's strategic priorities, ensuring the efficient management of its financial resources.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience in the public sector and a deep understanding of financial best practices, Thomas Skeen is well-positioned to continue contributing to the success of Queen Mary University of London. His strategic vision, technical expertise, and collaborative leadership style make him a valuable asset in the higher education finance landscape.
