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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team of finance analysts and drive operational excellence.
- Company: Smiths Detection is a global leader in safety and security technologies.
- Benefits: Join a purpose-driven organisation with opportunities for innovation and leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global safety while developing your career in finance.
- Qualifications: Recognised accounting qualification and strong SAP expertise required.
- Other info: This is a newly created role with strategic influence in a FTSE 100 company.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security. Part of Smiths Group, a FTSE 100 company, we are driven by the mission to make the world a safer place. Our solutions help detect and identify explosives, weapons, chemical agents, biohazards, and narcotics — protecting people and critical infrastructure every day. With a global presence and a strong culture of innovation, we empower our teams to solve complex problems with cutting-edge technology.
The Opportunity
Are you an experienced finance professional with a passion for operational excellence and team leadership? Smiths Detection is seeking a Senior Finance Manager – Global Operations to lead our European team of Operations Finance Analysts. This is a newly created, high-impact role offering strategic influence, cross-functional collaboration, and the opportunity to shape the financial operations that support our global manufacturing footprint.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a team of four regional finance analysts, driving performance and professional growth.
- Act as the key point of contact for regional financial issues and ensure consistency in execution and reporting.
- Drive continuous improvement and automation in financial processes across global operations.
- Manage monthly operations consolidation and reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Lead financial planning cycles (quarterly, annual, strategic), aligning with divisional targets.
- Analyse and report on manufacturing variances, cost trends, and inventory drivers.
- Oversee cost roll processes, absorption reporting, and standard cost maintenance.
- Collaborate with operations teams across Quality, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Logistics to enhance reporting and insights.
- Ensure compliance with SAP and finance policies, safeguarding financial controls and inventory integrity.
What You Bring
Essential:
- Recognised accounting qualification (or equivalent significant experience in manufacturing finance).
- Strong SAP expertise, particularly in master data and system structure.
- Proficiency in Excel, Power Query, and M365 tools.
- Deep understanding of global inventory accounting and operational finance best practices.
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire and challenge teams.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and influence key stakeholders.
Desirable:
- University degree and formal accounting qualification (CPA, CA, CIMA).
- Experience with PowerBI and PowerAutomate.
- Post-qualification experience in large, complex organisations with global operations.
Why Smiths Detection?
At Smiths Detection, you’ll be part of a purpose-driven organisation at the forefront of global safety and security. We invest in innovation and in our people—giving you the opportunity to lead, shape strategy, and drive impactful change.
Ready to Make an Impact?
Apply now to join our high-performing Global Operations Finance team and help us shape the future of safe and efficient global commerce.
Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations (, , United Kingdom) employer: Cielo Talent
Contact Detail:
Cielo Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations (, , United Kingdom)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Smiths Detection's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to safety and innovation will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing how your experience and passion for operational excellence can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Smiths Detection on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in conversations about their experiences can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which you can leverage during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven continuous improvement in financial processes in your previous roles. Highlighting your achievements in this area will demonstrate your capability to lead and develop teams effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your SAP expertise and be ready to discuss how you've used it in past positions. Given the emphasis on SAP in the job description, showcasing your proficiency will set you apart as a strong candidate for the Senior Finance Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations (, , United Kingdom)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance, particularly in operational roles. Emphasise your leadership skills and any experience with SAP and financial reporting that aligns with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for operational excellence and team leadership. Mention specific examples of how you've driven performance improvements in previous roles, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to Smiths Detection's mission.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency in Excel, Power Query, and M365 tools. Discuss your understanding of global inventory accounting and operational finance best practices, as these are essential for the role.
Showcase Leadership Experience: Provide examples of your leadership experience, particularly in managing teams and influencing stakeholders. Highlight any achievements that demonstrate your ability to inspire and challenge teams to achieve their goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cielo Talent
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Finance Manager, you'll be leading a team of finance analysts. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully developed and motivated teams in the past.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Smiths Detection is looking for someone with strong financial expertise. Brush up on your knowledge of global inventory accounting and operational finance best practices, and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SAP
Given the emphasis on SAP expertise in the job description, make sure you can speak confidently about your experience with SAP, particularly in master data and system structure. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've used SAP to drive improvements.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration Questions
This role requires collaboration with various teams such as Quality, Procurement, and Supply Chain. Think of examples where you've worked across departments to enhance reporting and insights, and be ready to share how you navigated any challenges.
