At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global finance transformation and optimise operations for smarter decision-making.
- Company: Dynamic international organisation focused on innovation and performance.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, hybrid working, private medical insurance, and generous holiday entitlement.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with strong focus on professional development and employee wellbeing.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance while driving impactful change across a global team.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in finance transformation and systems.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
About the Role
Lead the design and delivery of a global finance operating model, embedding innovation, driving performance, and enabling smarter, data‑led decision‑making across a complex, international organisation. The Head of Finance Transformation & Operations works closely with the CFO and Group Finance Director to shape the future of the global finance function.
Key Responsibilities
- Transformation & Operating Model Design: Shape and implement the global finance target operating model, develop a clear, prioritised transformation roadmap, balance quick wins with long‑term capability building, and translate the roadmap into sustainable operational improvements.
- Digital, Systems & Data Excellence: Champion digital tools, automation and analytics; own and evolve the finance systems landscape (including ERP platforms); lead system implementations, upgrades and optimisation initiatives; improve data quality, reporting capability and insight delivery.
- Processes & Controls: Optimise core finance processes (R2R, P2P, O2C) to drive efficiency and scalability; strengthen governance, controls and audit readiness; embed best practice aligned to accounting standards and internal policy.
- Transformation & Change: Lead end‑to‑end transformation delivery across processes, systems and organisational design; partner with Finance and IT to align technology with business needs; embed new ways of working and ensure strong adoption across global teams.
- Operations & Projects: Provide leadership to Finance Project Delivery and Digital & Systems teams; oversee a portfolio of transformation and operational initiatives; balance delivery of strategic programmes with business‑as‑usual priorities; drive consistent, high‑quality project and change practices.
- Collaboration & Influence: Act as a trusted partner to the CFO and senior finance leadership; build strong relationships across Finance, IT, Operations and Commercial teams; communicate with clarity and influence decision‑making at senior level.
Qualifications & Experience
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
- Proven experience leading finance transformation and operating model design from strategy through to execution.
- Strong knowledge of finance operations, systems and control environments.
- Experience with ERP systems, finance platforms and digital tools (e.g. BI, automation).
- Track record of delivering complex transformation in global or matrixed organisations.
- Familiarity with process improvement methodologies (e.g. Lean, Six Sigma).
- Desirable: experience in shared services or global process ownership models; background in professional services or construction; exposure to Agresso or Deltek Vision.
Personal Qualities
- Strategic thinker who translates vision into practical delivery.
- Collaborative, people‑focused leader who builds high‑performing teams.
- Commercially aware and comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels.
- Passionate about continuous improvement, innovation and digital adoption.
- Resilient, adaptable and confident influencing senior stakeholders.
Success Looks Like
- Delivery of a clearly defined and embedded global finance operating model.
- Improved consistency, governance and control across finance.
- Smarter decision‑making through enhanced systems and data.
- Brought a sustainable transformation roadmap with measurable outcomes.
- Global adoption of new processes, systems and ways of working.
Benefits
- Hybrid working arrangements.
- Attractive salary and benefits package, including private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection and a generous company pension scheme.
- 10% car allowance and a flexible holiday entitlement of 25 days per annum (excluding bank holidays).
- Flexible benefits such as cycle scheme, dental and optical cover, travel insurance, season ticket loans and corporate discounts.
- Enhanced parenthood leave policies and a 3pm finish on the last Friday of the month.
- Professional development opportunities and support for two memberships to professional bodies.
- Employee assistance programme and wellbeing activities.
Head of Finance Transformation & Operations in Bath employer: Buro Happold Limited
As a leading global organisation, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters innovation and collaboration within our finance teams. Our hybrid working arrangements, competitive salary packages, and commitment to professional development ensure that employees thrive both personally and professionally. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing and a culture that champions continuous improvement, we offer a unique opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the world of finance transformation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance Transformation & Operations in Bath
✨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.
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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 Buro Happold Limited. 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 Head of Finance Transformation & Operations in Bath
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 Buro Happold Limited.
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 Buro Happold Limited'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 Buro Happold Limited
✨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 Buro Happold Limited.
✨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 Buro Happold Limited 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 Buro Happold Limited 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.
