Deputy Head of Operational Excellence

Deputy Head of Operational Excellence (Finance) – Hybrid Role (Manchester)

We’re looking for an experienced Deputy Head of Operational Excellence to join our team in Manchester. This hybrid role offers the flexibility of three days working from home and two days on-site each week. You’ll be working with SAP and HFM systems, driving efficiency and continuous improvement within the Global Business Services Operations (GBSO) finance team.

About the Role

As the Deputy Head of Operational Excellence, you will take ownership of process improvements, operational support, and project initiatives within the finance function.

You’ll lead a team, ensuring smooth operations, identifying areas for automation, and implementing best practices to drive efficiency. Your role will involve close collaboration with senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams to align finance processes with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Process & Technology Improvement: Support and drive process improvements, ensuring efficiency and automation within finance operations.
2. Change Management: Act as a change leader, implementing process enhancements with minimal disruption.
3. Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong relationships with internal teams, including GBSO leadership and corporate finance.
4. Continuous Improvement: Monitor performance metrics, use data-driven insights to optimize processes, and lead operational excellence initiatives.
5. Project Leadership: Identify, own, and implement innovation projects to enhance financial operations.
6. Team Management: Lead and coach your team to drive efficiency and build capabilities within the organization.

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications:

1. Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration
2. CPA, CIMA, PMP, or Prince2 certification (required)
3. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt / Kaizen certification (preferred)

Experience & Skills:

1. 10+ years of experience in finance, accounting, or operational excellence, with at least 5 years in leadership roles
2. Expertise in Record to Report (R2R) processes
3. Strong understanding of finance workstreams, service management, and project management
4. Proven ability to drive process changes and Lean principles
5. Effective communicator, with excellent presentation and training skills
6. Hands-on approach, strong analytical mindset, and a proactive attitude
7. Experience in process design, system implementation, and project management

Why Join Us?

Competitive salary and career development opportunities. Be part of a dynamic team driving operational excellence in a global finance function.

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