At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, manage daily controls, and optimise cash management processes.
- Company: Dynamic agency with a focus on transparency and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private health insurance, flexible working, and generous leave.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and help shape the future of finance at our agency.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial workflows and mentor junior team members.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in finance, strong software skills, and a proactive mindset.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 38000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Finance Manager to lead and elevate our day to day finance operations. This role is not about sitting in a silo crunching numbers; it’s about ensuring accurate accounting and robust workflows, from the sales ledger and credit control to month end reporting and reconciliations, bringing total transparency to how our business operates. You’ll work closely with the Senior Finance Manager, Finance Director and agency stakeholders to ensure robust financial controls, and seamless processes.
What you will do:
- Manage daily financial controls, including accounts receivable (AR), accounts payable (AP), cash management, and balance sheet reconciliations.
- Take ownership of credit control, driving down DSO, managing client payment terms, and maintaining healthy working capital.
- Support the month-end closing process, preparing timely management accounts, accruals, prepayments, and commentary for senior leadership.
- Continuously evaluate and improve financial workflows and software integrations, partnering closely with RevOps to align operational and financial data.
- Oversee VAT returns, support with year end audit prep, and statutory reporting requirements.
- Act as a trusted partner to client teams and department heads; answering queries with total clarity, directness, and transparency.
- Monitor cash positions, manage working capital, prepare rolling cash flow forecasts, and optimise cash management procedures.
- Establish credit limits for new clients, evaluate financial risk, and implement structured payment terms aligned with agency growth.
- Oversee quarterly and annual VAT returns, tax compliance, statutory reporting, and act as the primary point of contact for external accountants and auditors.
- Leverage technology to automate routine tasks, invoice delivery, and reporting routines.
- Partner with leaders across Media, Strategy, CX and Organic teams.
- Mentor and coach junior members of the team.
- Be proactive in helping define what “Discovery” means for Finance and Journey Further.
- Act as an open, accessible finance expert across the entire business.
Requirements:
- 5+ years of experience in a broad financial role (Agency / Marketing / Professional Services background preferred, but not essential).
- Proven track record running credit control, balance sheet reconciliations, AP and AR, and management accounts.
- High proficiency with cloud accounting software (e.g., Xero) and strong Google Sheets skills.
- A proactive, solution-focused mindset; you see a process gap and fix it before it becomes a problem.
- Proven experience managing complete credit control cycles and debt recovery strategies.
- You understand how operational decisions directly affect agency margins and cash flow.
Benefits:
- Pension - Matched up to 4%.
- Health - Private medical insurance.
- Family - Enhanced maternity, paternity & adoption pay.
- Flexibility - 25 days annual leave, Christmas shutdown and home working allowance.
Salary:
- Leeds (non-qualified) - £33,000-£38,000.
- Leeds (qualified) - £38,000 - £43,000.
- Manchester (non-qualified) - £33,000 - £38,000.
- Manchester (qualified) - £39,000 - £44,000.
Finance Manager employer: Journey Further
At Journey Further, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to excel in their roles. As a Tracking Specialist, you will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies while receiving ongoing training and support for your professional growth. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our flexible working arrangements and a focus on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, making this an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨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 Journey Further. 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 Manager
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 Journey Further.
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 Journey Further'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 Journey Further
✨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 Journey Further.
✨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 Journey Further 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 Journey Further 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.
