Finance Manager – Network Strategy Transformation

At Gist, we're proud to be part of the M&S Group, the logistics engine behind M&S Food. From our distribution centres to our transport operations and support functions, we connect people, technology and expertise to ensure the right products reach the right stores at the right time. As we continue to invest in our people, technology and network, there's never been a more exciting time to join Gist and help shape the future of food logistics.

The Opportunity

Our UK and Ireland Finance Team have an exciting opportunity for a fully qualified Finance Manager where you will provide financial analysis, control, insights and business partnering to our Network Transformation Team. This pivotal role is crucial to network transformation and strategic growth where you will ensure financial delivery and control for critical projects across the business.

What you’ll be doing

• Reporting into the Head of Finance – Transformation, you will take full ownership of business cases related to network projects and transformation, partnering with the project team to ensure project spend is captured and reported.
• You will be comfortable and practiced in accounting for capital and operating expenditure, ensuring business owners are held to account for cost assumptions and projections and positively challenge project teams during implementations to maximise return on investment, highlighting risks, providing solutions and supporting project governance.
• You will also support with month end processes, including ledger review, journals, variance analysis and commentary, supporting deliverables to central financial teams.
• You will take a lead on monthly review and reporting of actual spend versus forecasts and budgets providing meaningful analysis, identifying risk and opportunities.
• You will regularly reforecast and prepare annual financial budgets for project areas ensuring that cost alignment and spend align to long term plan submissions.
• In addition to the above, you will collaborate with internal departments and act as a key point of contact for internal and external auditors as well as support the Head of Finance – FP&A with any additional tasks as and when required.

What we’re looking for

• ACCA/CIMA/ACA fully qualified with industry experience.
• Previous accountancy, financial reporting and analysis experience.
• Proven budget management and cost control experience ideally within large capital driven projects, preferably in automation environments.
• Able to influence, negotiate and problem solve within fast paced environments.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present complex financial reports and analysis to non-financial audiences.
• Able to build strong working relationships within a complex environment.
• Must be proficient in data analysis and capable of creating both statistical and visual reports.

Salary: Competitive Salary, Bonus and Private Medical

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm

Location: This role can be based from our Chineham Head Office, however we are open to accepting applications from individuals who can commute to Chineham twice a week.

What’s in it for you?

• 20% M&S discount on most things from furniture, fashion and food.
• 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (rising with length of service).
• Discounted rates on healthcare cash plan.
• Attractive annual bonus scheme, based on M&S performance and personal objectives.
• Auto Enrolment Pension or competitive Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and life assurance (up to 4 times salary).
• Amazing perks and discounts via our App to major restaurants and retailers.
• Access to a wide range of wellbeing support – including our Employee Assistance Programme.
• A first-class welcome with a tailored induction and a wide range of training schemes to help with your learning and development.
• Cycle to work scheme.

Why Gist?

When you join Gist, you’re joining a business that plays a critical role within the M&S Group. You’ll have the opportunity to influence meaningful change, work alongside experienced leaders and contribute to one of the UK’s leading food supply chains. Our culture is built around our values of being Progressive, Accountable, Collaborative and Ethical, creating an environment where people are trusted, supported and encouraged to grow. Whether you’re leading a site operation, delivering transformation or shaping future strategy, your work will make a real difference.

Our commitment to inclusion

At Gist, we believe our differences make us stronger. We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please let us know. We’ll work with you to ensure you have the support you need.