At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a major finance transformation project using Microsoft Dynamics 365.
- Company: Join ARO, a leading IT and communication expert with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical insurance, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values fun, trust, and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance while working in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in ERP implementations and strong finance knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Location: Farnborough (Hybrid)
Salary: Up to £80,000 Depending on Experience
Contract type: 12 Month Fixed Term Contract
About the role
We’re looking for an experienced Finance Transformation Project Manager on a 12 Month Fixed Term Contract basis to lead a major transformation of our finance function, platforms and processes through the implementation of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations (D365 F&O). This is a high-profile, end-to-end ERP transformation that will see the organisation move from legacy Sage systems to a modern, scalable finance platform. You’ll take ownership of a complex, multi-workstream programme, bringing together finance, technology, our implementation partner and key business stakeholders to deliver a successful transition. You’ll be at the heart of the transformation providing strong programme leadership, governance and risk management while ensuring the business remains operational throughout and, critically, that people are engaged, prepared and ready to embrace the new way of working.
This is an exciting opportunity for a delivery-focused project leader to shape how finance operates for the future, ensuring the programme is delivered on time, within budget and with measurable benefits that realise the business case. Please note that this is a Hybrid role with onsite requirement in our Farnborough office 3 days a week and occasional travel to our various locations across the UK. You must be able to commute to the office and have your own transport.
What you’ll do
As Finance Transformation Project Manager, you will take a leading role in delivering this transformation project, working across finance, technology and the wider business to ensure the programme delivers lasting improvements to processes, controls and ways of working. Core responsibilities will include:
- Programme Leadership & Delivery
- Lead the Finance Transformation Programme from the current scoping phase through design, implementation, go-live, hyper care and transition into BAU.
- Develop and maintain an integrated programme plan covering all workstreams, milestones, dependencies, deliverables and critical paths, working closely with the implementation partner.
- Coordinate activity across Finance, Procurement, Operations, IT and other business functions to ensure effective and timely delivery.
- Ensure the programme is delivered to agreed scope, timescales, budget and quality standards.
- Stakeholder & Partner Management
- Build strong, collaborative relationships with executive sponsors, Finance leadership, operational teams, technology stakeholders and the Microsoft implementation partner.
- Act as the central point of coordination across the programme, ensuring clear communication, alignment and accountability.
- Chair project and stakeholder meetings, providing clear updates on progress, risks, issues, dependencies, decisions and required actions.
- Manage the implementation partner against the agreed Statement of Work, ensuring deliverables, milestones and quality expectations are met while maintaining a positive and productive partnership.
- ERP Implementation & Governance
- Establish and maintain robust programme governance, reporting and controls throughout the transformation.
- Drive adherence to agreed project methodology, governance standards and delivery best practice.
- Oversee key implementation phases including design and build, data migration, testing, go-live, hyper care and transition to BAU.
- Establish clear stage gates and review processes, ensuring deliverables are appropriately reviewed, accepted and signed off.
- Maintain effective change control, ensuring scope changes are assessed, documented and appropriately approved.
- Finance Process Transformation
- Work closely with Finance leadership and business teams to review, standardise and optimise processes across areas including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Credit Control, Procurement, Purchasing and Financial Reporting.
- Identify opportunities to reduce manual activity, improve controls, introduce automation and deliver greater operational efficiency through D365 F&O.
- Ensure the future-state solution supports the organisation’s strategic objectives and delivers the improvements identified in the business case.
- Business Readiness, Change & Adoption
- Develop and deliver a comprehensive business change, communications and engagement strategy.
- Ensure the organisation is fully prepared for implementation and the transition to new systems and ways of working.
- Coordinate user acceptance testing, training, communications and adoption activities across impacted teams.
- Work with stakeholders to identify and address barriers to adoption, ensuring users are confident and equipped to work effectively in the new environment.
- Support a smooth transition through go-live and hyper care, with minimal disruption to business operations.
- Risk, Issue & Dependency Management
- Maintain and actively manage programme RAID logs, ensuring risks, assumptions, issues and dependencies are clearly documented and owned.
- Identify emerging risks and delivery challenges early, putting appropriate mitigation and contingency plans in place.
- Escalate significant risks and issues promptly and effectively, providing clear recommendations and options for resolution.
- Maintain strong visibility of programme dependencies and their potential impact on delivery.
- Measures of Success
- Keep the programme focused on delivering the outcomes and benefits set out in the original business case.
- Establish and track measures of success, including delivery against budget and timeline, business continuity, user adoption and stakeholder satisfaction.
- Work with business leaders to ensure benefits are embedded into BAU and that improvements are sustained beyond implementation.
Requirements
What we are looking for?
Essential
- Proven track record delivering at least two enterprise ERP / finance platform implementations.
- Led Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations or equivalent ERP transformation programme.
- Experience managing finance transformation projects within a multi-entity organisation.
- Strong understanding of finance operations and accounting processes.
- Experience managing third-party implementation partners and system integrators.
- Proven delivery of business change programmes.
- Demonstrable experience of programme governance, risk management, budgeting, and executive reporting.
- Experience managing data migration and integration workstreams.
Desirable
- Experience migrating from Sage 50 / 200 or similar legacy finance platforms.
- Experience within a Managed Service Provider (MSP), technology, telecoms, or professional services environment.
- Exposure to procurement, supply chain, subscription billing, or service-based revenue models.
- Experience working with an SME, preferably private equity-backed or acquisitive businesses.
Benefits
Who are we?
ARO has 25 years’ experience in Collaboration, Connectivity, Cloud and Infrastructure and Cyber Security services both in the UK and Internationally and has a nationwide presence with offices across the UK. As one of the UK’s leading independent IT and communication experts our mission is to deliver a seamless technology experience to all end users. To make that vision a reality, we need bright, tenacious and inspiring talent to help drive our performance, growth and achieve this mission. To make us successful we focus on strong communication, a culture based on fun, trust and collaboration. We have created a modern workplace environment, which is full of engaged, energetic, positive and curious people whose productivity, resilience and wellbeing allow them to thrive. In 2021 we were awarded the People Insight’s Outstanding Workplace Award, which celebrates organisations building positive workplace cultures and acting on employee feedback to spark positive change.
Why Work for ARO?
At ARO we are committed to creating an excellent employee experience. Our employees, culture and additional benefits all make ARO a great place to work. Come join us! We offer a wide range of benefits and incentives to our employees including:
- Company Pension Scheme and matching contributions
- Company Perks portal
- Private Medical insurance
- Life assurance
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays plus holiday trading
- Your Birthday off, on us
- Health Club and Wellbeing Scheme
- ARO Shares after 12 months employment
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Technical Training Academy and E-learning
- Hybrid working
If even 80% of this matches your experience and attributes, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Finance Transformation Project Manager in Farnborough employer: ARO
Join a dynamic team in Cardiff as a Senior Service Desk Analyst, where you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises professional growth and development. With a competitive salary, hybrid working options, and a range of benefits including private medical insurance and a generous holiday allowance, this role offers a fulfilling opportunity to make a real impact while enjoying a balanced work-life environment. Our commitment to employee wellbeing and continuous learning ensures that you will thrive both personally and professionally in this vibrant setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Transformation Project Manager in Farnborough
✨Tap into Consulting Networks
Get active in local management consulting networks and organisations. Attend meetups, workshops, or webinars specific to consulting where you can connect with professionals who may know of temporary roles opening up at places like ARO. Don’t underestimate word-of-mouth – it’s massive in our field!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Real-Time
As a temporary hire, you need to demonstrate your value quickly. Consider creating a mini-case study or analysis relevant to the industry and share it on platforms like LinkedIn or even during networking events. This can be an impressive way to showcase your analytical skills and problem-solving prowess – just what consulting firms are looking for!
✨Check for Temporary Roles on Niche Job Boards
Look for temporary roles on specialised job boards for consulting gigs rather than just generic platforms. Websites like Consultancy.uk or even the Careers pages of major firms could have short-term projects or roles that are perfect for you to jump in at ARO.
✨Leverage University and Alumni Resources
If you’re fresh out of uni or connected with a local institution, take advantage of their career services and alumni networks. Many universities have exclusive connections to consulting firms seeking temporary help. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other aspiring consultants who might share leads about opportunities at ARO.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Transformation Project Manager in Farnborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:In management consulting, employers love to see your problem-solving abilities right from the get-go. Be sure to highlight any relevant analytical projects you've worked on, particularly those that show how you tackled complex problems. If you’ve done any case studies or analysis during your studies, throw those in your CV!
Tailor Your Experience for the Role:Since this is a temporary position, your application should reflect your adaptability and relevant experience quite clearly. Focus on showcasing experiences that demonstrate your ability to hit the ground running, like previous projects, internships, or freelance gigs in consulting or project management.
Craft a Targeted Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to sparkle! Use it to explain why you're interested in this temporary role at ARO and how your skills suit the specific project needs. Remember to mention how you can provide immediate value based on your past experiences.
Include Certifications or Relevant Training:If you've got any certifications like PMP, Six Sigma, or even coursework that’s super relevant, make sure to list those in your application. Management consulting can be competitive, and these extra qualifications can help you stand out in the recruitment process.
How to prepare for a job interview at ARO
✨Prepare for Case Studies
In management consulting, case study interviews are a big deal. Expect to tackle real-world business problems on the spot. We should practise structuring our thoughts, developing hypotheses, and presenting our solutions clearly, as this is what firms like ARO will want to see.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
You’ll need to demonstrate strong analytical skills and logical reasoning. Brush up on frameworks like SWOT or Porter's Five Forces, as these can come in handy. Think of instances from your experience where you tackled a complex issue—this could set you apart when speaking to ARO.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, it's crucial we showcase our ability to hit the ground running. Have examples ready that illustrate how we've adapted quickly in past positions or projects. This shows that we can contribute effectively from day one at ARO.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Cultural Fit
Temporary roles often come with a focus on team dynamics. Prepare to discuss how we align with the values and culture at ARO. We want to highlight our teamwork experiences and how we can mesh with their consulting teams, making it clear that we're not just looking to fill a spot but to add value.
