At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, manage budgets, and improve financial systems in a supportive environment.
- Company: Join a values-driven public sector organisation with a national impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension contributions, flexible working, and 27.5 days annual leave.
- Other info: Enjoy a visible role with excellent career growth opportunities in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by shaping finance processes and collaborating with senior leaders.
- Qualifications: Finalist or newly qualified in ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ICAEW or equivalent with strong finance experience.
The predicted salary is between 47278 - 48743 £ per year.
EA First is delighted to be partnering with a small, high profile public sector organisation to recruit a Finance Lead.
This broad, hands on opportunity will suit an experienced finance professional who enjoys combining technical accounting, financial management and business partnering with the chance to improve systems, controls and ways of working.
Our client is a values led public body with a national remit.
Working within a collaborative and supportive environment, the organisation places strong emphasis on impartiality, transparency, professionalism and evidence based decision making.
Its compact structure gives the Finance Lead genuine visibility across the organisation and regular contact with senior leaders, budget holders and governance committees.
Reporting to the Director of Corporate Services, the Finance Lead will manage the day to day finance function and provide timely, accurate and accessible financial advice.
Key responsibilities will include
- Leading monthly management accounts, budget monitoring and forecasting for senior leaders and governance stakeholders.
- Supporting medium term financial planning, business planning, modelling and organisational decision making.
- Partnering with budget holders to strengthen financial accountability and identify efficiencies.
- Maintaining and developing financial policies, procedures, controls and audit trails.
- Coordinating year end working papers, financial disclosures, internal and external audit activity and implementation of recommendations.
- Preparing financial submissions and returns to relevant government bodies, including support for formal funding estimate processes.
- Overseeing payments, income, banking, cash flow, reconciliations and other day to day financial operations.
- Acting as lead contact for the finance system supplier and using digital solutions to improve reporting and efficiency.
- Providing financial modelling and commercial input for procurement exercises, business cases, contracts and projects.
- Contributing to governance, risk management, business continuity, corporate planning and committee support.
The Finance Lead will be comfortable taking ownership of a varied finance remit in a small organisation and translating financial information for non finance colleagues.
You will bring
- Finalist or newly qualified status with ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ICAEW or an equivalent body.
- Strong practical experience of budgeting, forecasting, management reporting, reconciliations and financial controls.
- Experience of supporting year end accounts and audit processes.
- The ability to produce clear analysis and explain financial information confidently to varied audiences.
- Strong Excel, Microsoft 365 and financial systems capability, with an interest in process and digital improvement.
- A proactive, organised and collaborative approach, with the ability to balance competing priorities and meet deadlines.
- Sound judgement, integrity and confidence when handling confidential or sensitive information.
- A background in public sector, central government, local government or not-for-profit finance.
- Knowledge of public sector financial guidance, risk management or business continuity.
- Experience within a small organisation or broad corporate services environment.
Finance Lead
- A permanent position with a starting salary of £47,278, increasing by 3.5% to £48,743 after the first anniversary.
- Civil Service pension scheme with a 28.97% employer contribution and 5.45% employee contribution, or a non-contributory partnership pension option with up to 14.75% employer contribution.
- 27.5 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing by one day every two years to a maximum of 30 days after five years.
- Flexible working practices and a hybrid arrangement requiring approximately two to four days per month in the London office for in person meetings.
- A visible, varied role offering exposure to senior decision makers and the opportunity to shape finance processes across the organisation.
EA First Ltd are acting as an Employment Agency for this permanent vacancy.
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Finance Lead employer: EA First
EA First Ltd is an excellent employer for those looking to embark on a rewarding career in Quantity Surveying. With a commitment to employee development, you will receive comprehensive training and support while working alongside a friendly team on prestigious projects in Warrington. The company fosters a collaborative work culture that values enthusiasm and reliability, providing ample opportunities for growth and advancement in your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Lead
✨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 EA First. 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 Lead
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 EA First.
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 EA First'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 EA First
✨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 EA First.
✨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 EA First 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 EA First 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.
