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- Tasks: Lead change management and communications for finance transformation projects.
- Company: Join JD Sports, a leading global retailer in sports fashion since 1981.
- Benefits: Enjoy staff discounts, personal development opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in a fast-paced, innovative company with a strong culture.
- Qualifications: Excellent communication skills and experience in change management are essential.
- Other info: This is a maternity cover role for 9-12 months based in Bury, Greater Manchester.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Change Management and Communications Lead – Finance Transformation (FTC - Maternity cover) role at JD Sports Fashion.
Established in 1981 with a single store in the Northwest of England, the JD Group is a leading omni-channel retailer of Sports Fashion, Outdoors and Gyms with our colleagues working in stores across several retail fascias in many markets around the world. JD Sports Fashion Plc was listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1996 and has been a FTSE100 publicly quoted company since 2019 and continues to grow in the UK and internationally. We want to be the leading global omnichannel retailer in the sports and outdoor industry.
The Change Management and Communications Lead is responsible for:
- Delivering the change agenda for the Finance Transformation Programme
- Clear understanding of the programme and its priorities and progress
- Building confidence in the programme delivery
- Delivering a training programme that results in competence and skill improvements relevant to the business
- An engaged stakeholder community
We will achieve this by:
- Following a clear Change framework that outlines how to deliver and anchor change in the business.
- Preparing the business for the changes expected by setting realistic expectations at stakeholder and user levels.
- Preparing users for the changed roles we need them to play through engaging, clear communications and constructive and meaningful training.
- Identifying metrics associated with the change and monitoring these to measure and manage adoption.
- Ensuring we have identified actions in support of ensuring the change is anchored and sticks.
The role supports the Business Leads on the project to scope the change agenda for their respective projects by capturing process change, cross functional impacts i.e. data, controls, tax etc.
Given the relative inexperience with Change management within the Finance function as well as across the JD Group, it is essential the role holder is able to scope change impacts comprehensively and lead and influence within the programme, across Finance and into the business as required to support the delivery of the change and realisation of changed business behaviours.
Previous experience of delivering Finance change with a working understanding of the terminology is preferable but not essential.
The Change and Communications lead reports into the Head of Group Finance Transformation and works closely with the Business Leads, Project Managers, Delivery Leads and Subject Matter Experts.
Accountabilities include:
- Identify requirements and deliver the Change Training and Communications approach tailored to the Transformation programme
- Lead and manage the Communications across the programme
- Lead and manage Finance relevant communication beyond the Finance function
- Lead and manage the trainers and the training agenda in support of the programme scope
- Deliver a community of users within and outside of Finance prepared for go-live across the scope of the programme
- Take ownership and leadership on developing and maintaining the Change Plan
Minimum Skills:
- Excellent communication and engagement skills across the business incl. at C-level
- An expert in change management including stakeholder management
- The skill and understanding to be able to translate project plans and objectives into relevant, actionable change-oriented scope, plans and deliverables
- Excellent influencing and communication skills
- Ability to build consensus and alignment
- Relationship & stakeholder management skills that inspire confidence and build trust
- Energetic with a great deal of self-motivated drive, enthusiasm and initiative
- A strong bias for delivery and ability to translate discussions and ideas into actions
Minimum Experience:
- Experience leading change and communications for a large multi-project transformation programme
- Experience leading and coaching staff to identify holistic change requirements
- Experience in delivering Change across the business that is enduring
- Management of a small team of change, communications and training professionals
Preferred:
- Experience within Finance or a Finance transformation programme
Competencies include:
- Change Management, Communications
- Stakeholder Management
- Planning and prioritisation
- Critical Thinking
- Business and commercial acumen
We know our colleagues work tirelessly to make JD Sports the success it is today and in turn, we offer them some amazing benefits including staff Discount On JD Group and other brands within the organisation and personal development opportunities to learn and develop at work.
Change Management and Communications Lead – Finance Transformation (FTC - Maternity cover) employer: JD Sports Fashion
Contact Detail:
JD Sports Fashion Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Change Management and Communications Lead – Finance Transformation (FTC - Maternity cover)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific change management frameworks and methodologies that are relevant to finance transformation. Understanding these frameworks will help you articulate your approach during interviews and demonstrate your expertise in leading change.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the finance transformation space, especially those who have experience in change management. Engaging with industry peers can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed change initiatives in the past. Highlight your ability to influence stakeholders and deliver training programmes, as these are key aspects of the role you're applying for.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends and challenges in finance transformation. Being knowledgeable about current issues will not only help you in interviews but also show your commitment to the field and your proactive approach to professional development.
We think you need these skills to ace Change Management and Communications Lead – Finance Transformation (FTC - Maternity cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Change Management and Communications Lead role. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly showcase your experience in change management, communications, and finance transformation. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements, particularly those that relate to stakeholder management and delivering change.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Highlight your understanding of JD Sports Fashion's goals and how your background makes you a perfect fit for leading their Finance Transformation programme.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Make sure to emphasise your excellent communication skills, ability to influence stakeholders, and experience in managing change across multiple projects. These are key competencies for the role and should be evident in both your CV and cover letter.
How to prepare for a job interview at JD Sports Fashion
✨Understand the Change Management Framework
Familiarise yourself with the change management framework that JD Sports uses. Be prepared to discuss how you would apply this framework to the Finance Transformation programme, highlighting your understanding of its priorities and progress.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Change Management and Communications Lead, excellent communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated change in previous roles, especially to diverse stakeholders, including C-level executives.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement
Be ready to discuss your experience in engaging stakeholders at all levels. Highlight specific strategies you've used to build trust and inspire confidence among team members and senior leaders.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and adaptability. Think of past experiences where you had to respond quickly to changing priorities and how you managed those situations successfully.
