At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning, forecasting, and analytics to support senior leadership.
- Company: Dynamic company experiencing growth and complexity in finance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary package and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team and foster a culture of excellence.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact by driving strategic financial insights and automation.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong FP&A and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 110000 £ per year.
A newly created senior finance leadership position reflecting business growth and increasing complexity. You’ll lead planning, forecasting, and analytics, acting as a trusted commercial partner to senior leadership. The role combines high-quality financial modelling, strategic insight, and driving systems, and automation improvements.
Key Responsibilities
- Planning & Forecasting
- Lead annual budgeting and medium-term planning
- Implement and manage rolling forecasts across P&L, revenue, EBITDA, and cash flow
- Build and maintain robust financial models (revenue, headcount, investment scenarios)
- Deliver scenario analysis, sensitivity testing, and strategic insights
- Business Partnering
- Partner senior leaders across multiple business areas
- Translate financial data into clear, actionable insights
- Support decision-making at executive and board level
- Prepare high-quality reporting and presentations
- Commercial & Deal Support
- Provide modelling and analysis for strategic initiatives (M&A, new markets, partnerships)
- Support due diligence, ROI analysis, and deal structuring
- Collaborate with external advisers where required
- Systems & Reporting
- Enhance FP&A systems, tools, and reporting infrastructure
- Drive automation to improve efficiency and data quality
- Own and evolve management reporting, including board packs
- Leverage modern tools (BI, planning platforms, AI-assisted analysis)
- Team Leadership
- Build and develop a high-performing FP&A team
- Foster a culture of analytical excellence and commercial thinking
- Support wider finance team development
About You
Essential
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Significant experience in senior FP&A, commercial finance, or business partnering roles
- Strong financial modelling and analytical capability
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders
- Experience improving processes and driving automation
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
Desirable
- Experience in partnership or professional services environments
- Exposure to multi-entity or international structures
- Experience with FP&A systems implementation or optimisation
- Background in consulting, actuarial, or analytics-led businesses
Head of Financial Planning in Manchester employer: Finatal
As a leading employer in the financial sector, we offer an exceptional work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our comprehensive training programmes and opportunities for advancement, ensuring that you can thrive in your career. Located in a vibrant area, we provide a competitive salary package alongside a culture that values diversity, teamwork, and excellence, making us an ideal choice for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Financial Planning 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.
✨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 Finatal. 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 Financial Planning 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 Finatal.
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 Finatal'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 Finatal
✨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 Finatal.
✨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 Finatal 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 Finatal 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.
