Key Achievements:
- Streamlined financial reporting and month-end processes, reducing closing time by 30%.
- Implemented budgeting and forecasting processes, improving accuracy and visibility of £500,000 in operational costs.
- Introduced financial controls and process improvements, saving the company £100,000 annually.
- Developed management reporting dashboards, enhancing decision-making speed for senior leadership.
- Mentored finance team members, improving efficiency, accuracy, and team retention.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Manage the day-to-day finance function, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger.
- Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
- Develop and maintain budgets, forecasts, and financial models for business planning.
- Monitor financial performance, analyse variances, and provide actionable recommendations to senior management.
- Ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory, and professional accounting standards.
- Oversee month-end and year-end closing processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
- Implement and maintain internal controls, policies, and procedures across the finance function.
- Lead audits, liaising with internal and external auditors, and addressing audit queries.
- Provide strategic financial guidance to business leaders and support decision-making.
- Prepare management reports, dashboards, and presentations for senior leadership and board meetings.
- Analyse cash flow, working capital, and capital expenditure to support operational efficiency.
- Review and approve financial transactions, including reconciliations, journal entries, and intercompany allocations.
- Supervise, mentor, and develop finance team members to enhance performance and skills.
- Support financial planning for strategic initiatives, investments, and business expansions.
- Ensure accurate maintenance of fixed asset registers, depreciation schedules, and reconciliations.
- Participate in business development and strategic projects, providing financial insight and analysis.
- Conduct risk assessments and ensure mitigation strategies are in place for financial and operational risks.
- Liaise with other departments, including operations, HR, and IT, to improve financial processes and reporting.
- Prepare ad-hoc financial analysis and reporting for senior leadership and stakeholders.
- Maintain confidentiality, professional ethics, and integrity in all financial activities.
What does a Finance Manager do?
A Finance Manager oversees an organisation's finance function, ensuring accurate financial reporting, effective budgeting and strong financial controls. They manage finance teams while supporting strategic planning and long-term business growth.
What qualifications do you need to become a Finance Manager?
Most employers require ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualifications together with several years of finance experience. Leadership ability, financial reporting expertise and commercial awareness are also highly valued.
What skills are important for a Finance Manager?
Finance Managers require strong leadership, communication and analytical skills. Technical accounting knowledge, budgeting expertise and the ability to manage multiple priorities are essential.
What are the responsibilities of a Finance Manager?
Responsibilities include managing financial reporting, preparing budgets, overseeing cash flow, maintaining financial controls, supervising finance staff and providing strategic financial advice to senior management.
What career progression is available for a Finance Manager?
Finance Managers commonly progress into Financial Controller, Head of Finance, Finance Director or Chief Financial Officer positions.