At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage finance operations, ensuring smooth month-end and year-end processes.
- Company: Established training organisation in Cheltenham with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £70,000 FTE for a 3-month contract.
- Other info: On-site role with a supportive team and clear deliverables.
- Why this job: Make an immediate impact in a key finance role during a crucial project.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance management and team leadership required.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
AtkinsClarke are recruiting a Finance Manager for a well-established training and education organisation based in Cheltenham. This is a short‑term backfill role to support the business while the incumbent Finance Manager is seconded onto a key project. The assignment will suit a hands‑on finance professional who is comfortable taking ownership quickly and ensuring continuity across month‑end, reporting and year‑end activity.
This organisation operates within the training and development sector, supporting individuals and businesses through high‑quality learning programmes. With a strong reputation and stable operations, the finance function plays a key role in maintaining robust controls, accurate reporting and smooth day‑to‑day operations. This role is fully on‑site, five days per week, working closely with senior stakeholders and a small finance team.
As Finance Manager, you’ll take responsibility for the day‑to‑day running of the finance function, ensuring month‑end, forecasting and statutory processes continue seamlessly during the interim period:
- Leading all month‑end close processes
- Reviewing monthly management accounts and producing variance commentary against budget and forecast
- Preparing cash flow forecasts and P&L forecasts
- Leading the year‑end process and acting as main point of contact for external auditors
- Managing and supporting a small finance team (2) handling administrative and transactional duties
- Overseeing UK payroll and bonus calculations
- Managing fixed assets including additions, disposals and depreciation
- Ensuring financial controls and reporting deadlines are met throughout the assignment
This is a delivery‑focused role with minimal handover time, ideal for someone confident stepping into a busy finance function.
We’re looking for an experienced Finance Manager or Financial Controller who can hit the ground running and take ownership with minimal supervision:
- Strong experience leading month‑end and year‑end processes
- Confidence reviewing management accounts and providing clear financial commentary
- Experience overseeing payroll and fixed asset accounting
- The ability to manage and support a small team
- A practical, hands‑on approach and strong attention to detail
- Availability to work on‑site in Cheltenham, five days per week
A short‑term, high‑impact interim opportunity offering immediate responsibility and visibility:
- Up to £70,000 FTE (rate dependent on experience)
- 3-month fixed term contract
- Fully on‑site role based in Cheltenham
- Opportunity to support a stable organisation during a key project period
- Clean, well‑scoped handover role with defined deliverables
At AtkinsClarke, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities.
Finance Manager in Cheltenham employer: AtkinsClarke
AtkinsClarke is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where strategic financial leadership is valued and nurtured. Located in the West Midlands, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that prioritises professional growth and development, alongside competitive remuneration. This role not only provides the opportunity to make a significant impact within the education sector but also fosters a sense of community and purpose among its team members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Cheltenham
✨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 AtkinsClarke. 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 Manager in Cheltenham
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 AtkinsClarke.
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 AtkinsClarke'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 AtkinsClarke
✨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 AtkinsClarke.
✨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 AtkinsClarke 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 AtkinsClarke 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.
