At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage finance operations, prepare accounts, and drive process improvements.
- Company: Join Ballards, a fast-growing independent firm in the Midlands.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive culture with opportunities to influence and grow.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on role with finance transformation projects.
- Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, CIMA qualified or AAT qualified by experience.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Location: Worcester or Droitwich
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Hybrid: 60% office-based
Reporting to: Group Financial Controller
Join Ballards
At Ballards, we’re more than accountants, we’re trusted advisers helping ambitious businesses, charities and private clients thrive. With over 150 colleagues across the Midlands, we’re one of the region’s fastest-growing independent firms, combining accountancy, tax, audit and specialist consultancy services.
We’re looking for a hands-on Finance Manager to join our growing finance team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys being involved in the detail while also driving improvements across finance processes and systems.
The Role
Reporting to the Group Financial Controller, you’ll manage the day-to-day finance function, oversee a small team and ensure accurate financial reporting, strong financial controls and efficient finance operations. This is a varied role where you’ll remain actively involved in the numbers while partnering with the wider business and supporting ongoing finance transformation projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare monthly management accounts, journals and balance sheet reconciliations
- Own the trial balance and support month-end close
- Prepare VAT returns and statutory reporting
- Support budgeting, forecasting and business partnering
- Undertake supplier payments, expenses payments and cash management
- Support payroll compliance and reporting, including cover during absence
- Drive process improvements and support finance systems and ERP implementation
- Manage and develop a small finance team
About You
We’re looking for someone who is:
- ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified (or finalist), or AAT qualified by experience
- Experienced in a similar hands-on finance role
- Confident producing management accounts and balance sheet reconciliations
- Advanced in Excel (Pivot Tables, XLOOKUP, SUMIFS)
- Proactive, organised and keen to improve processes
- Experience with payroll, departmental reporting or finance systems implementation would be advantageous.
Why Ballards?
- Hybrid working
- Supportive, collaborative culture
- Genuine career development opportunities
- Opportunity to influence finance transformation projects
- Competitive salary and benefits package
If you’re looking for a varied, hands-on Finance Manager role where you can make a real impact within a growing business, we’d love to hear from you.
Finance Manager employer: Ballard's
At Four Squared Recruitment, part of the Ballards Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by offering a supportive and ambitious culture that fosters personal and professional growth. With comprehensive training, clear career pathways, and flexible working arrangements, our team members enjoy the opportunity to build meaningful relationships while earning uncapped commission in a dynamic environment located in Worcester. Join us to kickstart your recruitment career and be part of a thriving consultancy where your success is celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨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 Ballard's. 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
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 Ballard's.
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 Ballard's'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 Ballard's
✨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 Ballard's.
✨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 Ballard's 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 Ballard's 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.
