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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support commercial strategy and performance as a Finance Business Partner in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join one of the UK’s leading transport groups, shaping the future of Coach operations.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, free travel on National Express, and a supportive environment with growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make impactful decisions, collaborate with senior leaders, and drive business success in a vibrant culture.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant (ACCA/CIMA/ACA) with 3+ years experience and strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: We promote inclusivity and welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.
Join us on the Journey…
Read on to find out what you will need to succeed in this position, including skills, qualifications, and experience.
Join one of the UK\’s leading transport groups as a Finance Business Partner supporting the commercial strategy and performance of our Coach operating entities (c£350m turnover). This is a pivotal role within our Finance Planning & Analysis (FP&A) team, offering the opportunity to work closely with senior leaders and drive business-critical decisions.
The Role
As Finance Business Partner, you\’ll act as a trusted advisor to the commercial and operational leadership teams, providing insight, analysis, and strategic challenge. You\’ll lead a small team and be responsible for delivering robust planning, forecasting, reporting, and performance analysis that supports the business in achieving its growth goals.
You\’ll report to the Head of FP&A and be a key point of contact for senior stakeholders across pricing, marketing, sales, and operations.
Key Responsibilities
Business Partnering & Commercial Insight
Work with commercial teams to understand and improve financial performance, identifying risks, gaps, and opportunities
Support pricing strategies through market and competitor analysis
Lead financial evaluation of bids, tenders, marketing campaigns, and new initiatives
Provide financial modelling and ROI assessments for investment proposals
Collaborate on continuous improvement projects and contractual negotiations
Reporting & Performance Management
Ensure accurate and timely reporting for revenue and commercial P&Ls
Produce insightful reports and dashboards that track KPIs and highlight performance drivers
Support monthly, quarterly, and board-level reporting processes
Assist with year-end audit and compliance activity
Planning & Strategy
Drive annual budget, forecasting, and long-range financial planning cycles
Hold stakeholders accountable for delivering agreed performance targets
Lead and improve financial risk and opportunity reporting
Leadership & Development
Lead, coach and develop a small team of finance professionals
Foster a culture of performance, collaboration, and continuous improvement
What We\’re Looking For
Qualified Accountant (ACCA / CIMA / ACA) with 3+ years post-qualification experience (Essential)
Proven experience in business partnering roles, ideally in transport, logistics, or manufacturing
Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial and non-financial data
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
Advanced Excel and data modelling proficiency
Why Join Us?
Be part of a high-impact finance team shaping the future of our Coach business
Hybrid working model with flexibility to support work–life balance
A dynamic, commercially focused role where your insights will directly influence strategy
Supportive environment with clear progression and development opportunities
Ready to take the next step in your finance career? Apply now and help drive the success of a key part of our business.
What we offer in return for your hard work and commitment…
Free Bus & Coach travel for yourself on the National Express network
Complimentary coach travel for a Nominated Person or complimentary bus travel for a Spouse or Partner on the National Express network
Company pension
Employee Assistance programme
Private online GP service
National Express is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we positively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.
We are a Disability Confident Committed employer and should you require any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process please let us know.
We reserve the right to close this advert early if we receive a high volume of applications before the advertised closed date.
Things to Note…
At National Express, we are really proud of our health and safety record and as a result, we operate a Drugs and Alcohol Policy which is applicable to all employees.
As part of your initial assessment, we will complete Drug and Alcohol testing and you may be subject to random tests during your employment
Finance Business Partner - Central & Projects employer: National Express Group PLC
Contact Detail:
National Express Group PLC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Business Partner - Central & Projects
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the transport and logistics industry. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within this sector will help you engage more effectively with stakeholders and demonstrate your value as a Finance Business Partner.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in finance and transport. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others in the field. This can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your Excel and data modelling skills. Since advanced proficiency is required for this role, showcasing your ability to create complex financial models during interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in business partnering. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've influenced decision-making and improved financial performance in previous roles, as this will highlight your suitability for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Business Partner - Central & Projects
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance business partnering, particularly in transport or logistics. Emphasise your analytical skills and any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with the company's goals. Mention specific examples of how you've driven financial performance in previous roles.
Highlight Key Skills: Focus on showcasing your advanced Excel and data modelling proficiency. Provide examples of how you've used these skills to support strategic decisions and improve financial outcomes.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions related to your experience in financial planning and analysis. Be ready to discuss how you've collaborated with stakeholders and led teams to achieve performance targets.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Express Group PLC
✨Understand the Business
Before your interview, take the time to research the transport industry and the specific challenges faced by the company. Familiarise yourself with their financial performance, recent news, and how they position themselves against competitors. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Finance Business Partner, strong analytical skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used data to drive business decisions in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have with financial modelling and ROI assessments, as these will be key components of the job.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Questions
Given the importance of stakeholder management in this role, think about your past experiences working with senior leaders. Prepare to share examples of how you've effectively communicated complex financial information and influenced decision-making processes. This will showcase your ability to build relationships and act as a trusted advisor.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
Since you'll be leading a small team, it's essential to convey your leadership style and how you foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss your approach to coaching and developing team members, as well as any successful projects you've led in the past.
