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- Tasks: Lead a team of finance analysts and drive operational excellence in financial processes.
- Company: Smiths Detection is a global leader in safety technologies, part of the FTSE 100 Smiths Group.
- Benefits: Enjoy a purpose-driven culture, opportunities for innovation, and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global safety while shaping financial strategies in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Recognised accounting qualification and strong SAP expertise are essential; leadership skills are a must.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team dedicated to making the world a safer place.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security. Part of Smiths Group, a FTSE 100 company, we are driven by the mission to make the world a safer place. Our solutions help detect and identify explosives, weapons, chemical agents, biohazards, and narcotics — protecting people and critical infrastructure every day. With a global presence and a strong culture of innovation, we empower our teams to solve complex problems with cutting-edge technology.
Are you an experienced finance professional with a passion for operational excellence and team leadership? Smiths Detection is seeking a Senior Finance Manager – Global Operations to lead our European team of Operations Finance Analysts. This is a newly created, high-impact role offering strategic influence, cross-functional collaboration, and the opportunity to shape the financial operations that support our global manufacturing footprint.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a team of four regional finance analysts, driving performance and professional growth.
- Act as the key point of contact for regional financial issues and ensure consistency in execution and reporting.
- Drive continuous improvement and automation in financial processes across global operations.
- Manage monthly operations consolidation and reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Lead financial planning cycles (quarterly, annual, strategic), aligning with divisional targets.
- Analyse and report on manufacturing variances, cost trends, and inventory drivers.
- Oversee cost roll processes, absorption reporting, and standard cost maintenance.
- Collaborate with operations teams across Quality, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Logistics to enhance reporting and insights.
- Ensure compliance with SAP and finance policies, safeguarding financial controls and inventory integrity.
What You Bring
Essential:
- Recognised accounting qualification (or equivalent significant experience in manufacturing finance).
- Strong SAP expertise, particularly in master data and system structure.
- Proficiency in Excel, Power Query, and M365 tools.
- Deep understanding of global inventory accounting and operational finance best practices.
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire and challenge teams.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and influence key stakeholders.
Desirable:
- University degree and formal accounting qualification (CPA, CA, CIMA).
- Experience with PowerBI and PowerAutomate.
- Post-qualification experience in large, complex organisations with global operations.
At Smiths Detection, you’ll be part of a purpose-driven organisation at the forefront of global safety and security. We invest in innovation and in our people—giving you the opportunity to lead, shape strategy, and drive impactful change.
Ready to Make an Impact? Apply now to join our high-performing Global Operations Finance team and help us shape the future of safe and efficient global commerce.
Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations (, , United Kingdom) employer: Cielo Talent
Contact Detail:
Cielo Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations (, , United Kingdom)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Smiths Detection's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to safety and innovation will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing how your experience and passion fit into their culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Smiths Detection on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in conversations can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your SAP expertise and operational finance best practices. Being able to discuss specific examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles will demonstrate your readiness for the Senior Finance Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing teams. Since this role involves leading a team of finance analysts, showcasing your ability to inspire and develop others will be crucial in the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations (, , United Kingdom)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance, particularly in operational roles. Emphasise your leadership skills and any experience with SAP and financial reporting that aligns with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for operational excellence and team leadership. Mention specific examples of how you've driven performance improvements in previous roles, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to Smiths Detection's mission.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency in Excel, Power Query, and M365 tools. If you have experience with PowerBI and PowerAutomate, make sure to include that as well, as it is desirable for this role.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience: Demonstrate your proven leadership skills by providing examples of how you've inspired and developed teams in the past. This will be crucial for the Senior Finance Manager position, where team development is a key responsibility.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cielo Talent
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Finance Manager, you'll be leading a team of finance analysts. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully developed and motivated teams in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Financial Acumen
Smiths Detection is looking for someone with strong financial expertise, particularly in operational finance. Brush up on key financial concepts and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles, especially in manufacturing finance.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SAP and Excel
Given the emphasis on SAP expertise and proficiency in Excel, make sure you can speak confidently about your experience with these tools. Consider preparing specific examples of how you've used them to drive improvements in financial processes.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration Questions
This role requires collaboration with various teams such as Quality, Procurement, and Supply Chain. Think of instances where you've worked across departments to achieve a common goal and be ready to share those experiences during the interview.
