At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage budgets, ensure compliance, and support financial processes in a dynamic prison environment.
- Company: Join the Scottish Prison Service, dedicated to public safety and rehabilitation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, training opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital team impacting lives while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: HNC in accountancy or equivalent; experience in budget management required.
- Other info: Position located at HMP Edinburgh with a focus on integrity and compliance.
The predicted salary is between 52356 - 55886 £ per year.
Vacancy Type: Permanent Location: Headquarters/Hybrid Pay Band: Please refer to full job description on SPS career site Salary: £52,356 – £55,886 Closing Date: Hours of Work: Please refer to full job description on SPS career site Job Purpose: The role of finance manager within HQ is to deliver financial support to the functions of a corporate directorate. The role will work as part of a team of Finance Managers, with line responsibility for associated finance staff. This position helps ensure the integrity of financial data for all HQ directorates and help deliver financial understanding and scrutiny across all levels of the directorate. This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with Directors and their senior management to help deliver financial plans, sharing knowledge and ideas, providing input into not only business as usual but also ad hoc project work and business case build up. The finance manager will confidently share knowledge, ideas and drive forward the finance agenda of strong financial management, risk, accountability and governance. This role lends itself to Hybrid working, in line with policy. While the main office location will be HQ there may be some travel to establishments to aid in the understanding of the operational issues. Responsibilities: Financial Management: Lead the directorate financial management, which includes preparation and submission of monthly variance reports, forecast outturns, and annual financial planning submissions. Attend regular meetings with Directors and their senior managers/budget holders to ensure accurate reporting of forecast spend, understanding wider implications and making recommendations where appropriate. Ensure that all procurement activities conducted by the establishment comply with Procurement policies and procedures. Financial Reporting: Responsible for the management and reporting of month end processes including accruals, prepayments and reconciliations. Submission of the directorate year-end pack for inclusion in the Annual Report and Accounts. Financial Planning: Plan and manage the annual financial planning exercise for the directorate. Support Directors and senior managers in their financial submissions; ensuring financial plans are aligned to the directorate/corporate strategy and annual delivery plans. Assist in the development of business case proposals prior to formal submission. Project and Programme Management (PPM): An understanding of PPM which facilitates the monitoring of major projects within the directorate ensuring accurate reporting of forecasts, categorisation of spend, VAT treatment, profiling and the impact on current and future budgets. The post holder will also be involved in other areas of Directorate business helping to support diverse Projects that help both our routine business delivery, as well as contributing towards SPS achieving its Corporate Plan objectives. People Management: Educate and train non-finance colleagues in SPS’ Policies and Procedures. Ensure that staff have the necessary skills to carry out their role. Drive forward finance training for finance/non-finance staff using motivational and leadership techniques. Aid in development of E band finance manager, with initial oversight of submissions. Governance: Support senior managers and Directors to discharge their financial management responsibilities. This covers, but is not limited to, delegated authorities (financial and procurement), financial stewardship, risk identification and management, project and programme management. Person Specification SPS recruitment and selection practice is based on the fundamentals of our Behavioural Competency Framework. This identifies behaviours and standards required both of applicants seeking to join us, and our staff in their respective roles. Assessment of specific behaviours, of which there are twelve, will be determined by the role you are applying for. Whilst it is unlikely you will be assessed on all of them , you will be assessed on these identified as key to role. Qualifications Requirements Possession of an accountancy qualification, or in final stages of such. (Essential) Experience Requirements Knowledge Skills Requirements Financial management – Experience in the management of control accounts and financial reconciliations. Proficient in budget/forecast setting, management and analysis. (Essential) Financial Planning – Experience in the management of accounts payable and receivable ledgers, calculation of accruals and prepayments and variance analysis and understanding. (Essential) Financial Reporting – Experience of report writing and briefing to inform organisational direction and delivery, using a variety of mediums. (Essential) Business Improvement – Ability to assess and review information and recognise potential issues and the ability to interrogate and interpret financial/business data that will provide management information and support decision making. (Essential) Selection Methods Please refer to full job description on SPS career site
Finance Manager, Permanent employer: Scottish Prison Service
Contact Detail:
Scottish Prison Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager, Permanent
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Scottish Prison Service's financial policies and procedures. Understanding these guidelines will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance and governance, which is crucial for the Finance Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the Scottish Prison Service. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the organisational culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've managed budgets and financial systems in previous roles. Highlighting your experience with financial forecasting and compliance will show that you're well-equipped for the responsibilities of this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your knowledge of accounting processes and financial management systems. Being able to speak confidently about your proficiency in these areas will set you apart as a strong candidate for the Finance Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager, Permanent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Finance Manager position. Make sure you understand the responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in budget management, financial reporting, and compliance with financial policies. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements in these areas.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Clearly state your HNC accountancy qualification or equivalent in your application. If you have additional certifications or relevant training, make sure to include those as well.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your cover letter to reflect how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the Finance Manager role. Mention your proficiency in financial management systems and your ability to provide accurate financial forecasts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of a Finance Manager. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in budget management and compliance with financial policies.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
Be ready to demonstrate your proficiency in financial management systems and accounting processes. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed budgets or improved financial reporting.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Since the selection process is based on a Behavioural Competency Framework, think of specific instances where you've displayed the required competencies. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the organisation. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the company culture and values align with yours. Consider asking about the challenges the finance team currently faces.