At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and drive growth through data-driven insights.
- Company: Join a friendly firm that values individual contributions and offers great career prospects.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 34-hour work week, agile working, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Regular travel between office locations and opportunities for social outings and charity events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming finance functions in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in professional services and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a commercially driven Finance Director to partner with the CEO and Partnership, leading financial strategy and transforming how the firm uses data, insight, and performance to drive growth. This is a high‑impact, strategic role, focused on driving commercial performance, enhancing decision‑making, and evolving the finance function to support a modern, forward‑looking firm. Please note, this role can be based in Leeds, Halifax or Manchester; however, regular travel between all four office locations will be required.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with the CEO & leadership team to shape and deliver firm strategy
- Lead financial planning, forecasting, and performance insight
- Drive commercial decision‑making through data‑led insight
- Build and develop a high‑performing finance team
- Improve systems, processes, and financial controls
- Deliver clear reporting across KPIs, profitability, and cashflow
- Lead external stakeholder relationships (auditors, banks, advisors)
- Oversee budgeting, audit, tax, payroll, and compliance
- Identify opportunities for efficiency, margin growth, and operational improvement
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Established Finance Director or a strong Head of Finance ready to step up
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Experience in professional services (legal/IP highly advantageous)
- Experience transforming finance functions, systems, and processes
- Experience improving finance functions, systems, and reporting
- Confident in influencing senior stakeholders and leadership
Benefits
We pride ourselves on being small and friendly enough for you to get to know everyone – but big enough to offer you great career prospects. At Appleyard Lees, you won't feel like a number or just another cog in the wheel. We understand everyone is individual and offer a friendly and supportive place to work and learn. We also offer:
- 34 hour working week, Monday - Friday
- Agile working
- A supportive and friendly place to work and learn
- Annual salary review
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Salary Exchange
- Life assurance
- Healthcare Cash Plan & Wellbeing App
- Group Income Protection
- Long Service Milestones
- Social outings
- Vouchers on Christmas, Birthdays and Special Occasions
- Charity events
Finance Director in Manchester employer: Appleyard Lees IP LLP
At Appleyard Lees, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and friendly work environment where every employee is valued as an individual. As a Finance Director in Manchester, you will not only lead strategic financial initiatives but also enjoy a balanced 34-hour working week, agile working options, and numerous opportunities for professional growth within a close-knit team. With a commitment to employee wellbeing and a culture that celebrates achievements, Appleyard Lees stands out as an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director in Manchester
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Appleyard Lees IP LLP. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Appleyard Lees IP LLP.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Appleyard Lees IP LLP's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Appleyard Lees IP LLP
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Appleyard Lees IP LLP.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Appleyard Lees IP LLP will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Appleyard Lees IP LLP employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
