At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex senior debt transactions and build strong client relationships in the North West.
- Company: Dynamic finance firm with a focus on mid-market growth and collaboration.
- Benefits: Private medical insurance, competitive pension, performance bonuses, and wellness options.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for career development and local networking.
- Why this job: Join a high-performing team and make a real impact in the finance sector.
- Qualifications: Experience with mid-market clients, strong financial skills, and excellent communication abilities.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are expanding our Strategic Finance team in the North West as part of an ambitious growth plan to significantly increase our presence in the mid‑market and sponsor‑backed segment. This is a unique opportunity to join a high‑performing team with strong momentum and a clear mandate to grow.
Responsibilities
- Support the origination, structuring and execution of complex senior debt transactions across the North West.
- Responsible for deal leadership from initial origination through to execution, building a high‑quality portfolio of mid‑market, corporate and sponsor‑backed clients.
- Work closely with Senior Directors across the end‑to‑end origination, evaluation and execution of senior cashflow and asset‑based lending transactions.
- Help develop deep relationships with private equity sponsors, corporate clients and professional advisers, positioning yourself as a trusted partner in the regional deal ecosystem and enhancing the visibility of our Strategic Finance team in the North West.
- Support the development of a strong local network, increase in‑market activity, and develop new client relationships in the region.
- Combine origination and relationship management to build a high‑quality portfolio of larger customers, strengthen our presence with mid‑market and corporate clients, sponsors and professional advisers.
- Hybrid working is offered wherever possible, covering the North West region with regular travel to meet customers across the region and to collaborate in our office sites, primarily in Manchester or Chester on a weekly basis.
Qualifications
- Demonstrable experience supporting mid‑market or corporate clients, with a clear understanding of complex business environments and a commitment to delivering excellent customer outcomes.
- Proven financial and analytical capability, including robust modelling, valuation and hands‑on deal experience.
- Solid accounting and corporate finance knowledge, with the ability to apply commercial judgement to structuring and credit decisions.
- Good market awareness, with the ability to interpret sector trends and translate insights into informed decision‑making.
- Highly organised and delivery‑focused, able to manage multiple workstreams and operate effectively under pressure.
- Exceptional communication and relationship‑building skills, with the ability to engage confidently with internal stakeholders, clients and advisers.
- A professional qualification (e.g. Chartered Banker, ACA/ACCA or equivalent).
Benefits
- Access to private medical insurance.
- A highly competitive pension to help you build a strong foundation for retirement.
- Access to an annual performance‑related bonus.
- Training and development to help you progress your career.
- A great selection of additional benefits through our salary sacrifice scheme.
- Life assurance to provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones in the event of your death.
- Wellhub – access to a range of free and paid options for health and wellness.
- Up to 2 days of paid volunteering a year.
Associate Director - Strategic Finance in Manchester employer: Description This
Join our dynamic Strategic Finance team in the North West, where we prioritise employee growth and foster a collaborative work culture. With access to competitive benefits, including private medical insurance and a robust pension plan, we are committed to supporting your career development while you build meaningful relationships within the mid-market and sponsor-backed sectors. Our hybrid working model and focus on local engagement in the Merseyside market make this an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a rewarding and impactful role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - Strategic Finance in Manchester
✨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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - Strategic Finance in Manchester
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 Description This.
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 Description This'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 Description This
✨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 Description This.
✨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 Description This 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 Description This 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.
