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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and decision-making for a dynamic region in the life sciences sector.
- Company: Join Illumina, a leader in genomic technology with a mission to improve human health.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, meaningful impact, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in health equity while shaping financial strategies.
- Qualifications: Degree in Finance or related field; experience in complex organisations preferred.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realise health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.
Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world-changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.
Location: Cambridge UK (Hub & Hybrid – minimum 1 day per week onsite)
As Finance Manager – Commercial Business Partner, you will be the finance lead for one of Illumina’s EMEALA sub-regions, owning the full P&L and acting as a trusted strategic advisor to the Sub-Region General Manager and leadership team. This is a high-visibility role where insight, influence, and commercial judgement directly shape regional performance.
If you thrive at the intersection of data, strategy, and leadership — and want to see your work translate into real-world impact — this role offers a compelling next step.
What you’ll do
- Own the P&L: Lead full financial ownership across revenue, OPEX, and profitability for your region
- Drive strategic decisions: Deliver high-quality commercial insight to support forecasting, budgeting, pricing, and investment decisions
- Influence at senior level: Represent Finance in leadership forums, challenging assumptions and shaping regional strategy with confidence
- Enable performance: Design and implement reporting and planning tools that simplify complexity and empower commercial teams
- Act as a catalyst for change: Continuously improve processes, strengthen governance, and drive efficiency across the region
Why you
You’re a commercially minded finance leader who enjoys being close to the business. You’re comfortable challenging constructively, translating complexity into clarity, and building trusted relationships across functions and geographies.
You bring:
- Strong strategic thinking with a hands-on mindset
- Confidence partnering with senior commercial leaders
- A passion for using data to influence outcomes, not just report them
- The ability to lead through ambiguity in a fast-moving, growth-oriented environment
What you bring
- Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business or similar (MBA / CIMA / ACCA / CPA preferred)
- Proven experience in a complex, matrixed or high-growth organisation (life sciences, pharma, or healthcare strongly valued)
- Advanced planning and reporting experience (TM1, Cognos, IBM Planning Analytics or equivalent)
- Strong commercial finance capability including forecasting, financial modelling, and performance analysis
- Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills, with the confidence to influence at senior level
At Illumina, your work has purpose. You’ll join a global organisation driven by innovation, accountability, and collaboration — where Finance plays a critical role in enabling scientific progress and sustainable growth.
We offer:
- Meaningful work that contributes to improving human health
- A collaborative, values-led culture
- Exposure to senior leadership and regional strategy
- Flexibility through a hybrid working model
- The opportunity to grow your impact and career in a truly global organisation
Apply now and help shape the financial decisions behind the science that’s changing lives.
We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritised openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, colour, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information.
Finance Manager - Commercial Business Partner in Cambridge employer: Illumina
Contact Detail:
Illumina Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager - Commercial Business Partner in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who work at Illumina or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Illumina's mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals in genomic technology. The more you know, the better you can connect your skills to their needs!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've influenced strategic decisions in your past roles. We want to hear about your impact and how you can bring that to the Finance Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Illumina and making a difference in human health.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager - Commercial Business Partner in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Finance Manager role. Highlight your strategic thinking and commercial finance capabilities, as these are key for us at Illumina.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a great fit. Be sure to mention your experience in complex organisations and your ability to influence at senior levels.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your financial acumen and ability to drive strategic decisions. Numbers speak volumes, so quantify your successes where possible!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a real impact in human health.
How to prepare for a job interview at Illumina
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics related to P&L, revenue, and OPEX. Be ready to discuss how you've used these numbers to drive strategic decisions in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to influence senior leaders and make data-driven decisions. Think about times when your insights led to significant changes or improvements in your organisation's performance.
✨Build Relationships
This role requires strong stakeholder management skills. Before the interview, consider how you can build rapport with the interviewers. Share experiences where you've successfully collaborated across functions and geographies.
✨Embrace the Challenge
Illumina values candidates who can lead through ambiguity. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated complex situations in fast-paced environments. Highlight your hands-on approach and willingness to adapt to change.