At a Glance
- Tasks: Support budgeting, forecasting, and improve financial processes while collaborating with teams.
- Company: Join ZEISS, a global leader in optical and imaging technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, 25 days holiday, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Great career progression in a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Step into a role with increased responsibility and influence on business performance.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance or management accounting; strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60750 - 74250 £ per year.
Location: Cambourne or Lutterworth (Hybrid Working)
Full-time | Permanent
Are you a finance professional ready to take the next step into a broader, more commercially focused role? ZEISS is looking for a Finance & Operations Controller to join its UK Finance team in Cambourne or could be based in Lutterworth. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with a background in finance, management accounting, controlling or commercial finance who wants greater exposure to business operations, senior stakeholders and strategic decision-making.
As a global leader in optical, imaging and microscopy technology, ZEISS develops innovative solutions that support scientific discovery, advanced manufacturing and healthcare worldwide. In this role, you'll work closely with teams across the business to improve performance, optimise processes and provide the financial insight that supports key business decisions. This is a genuine step-up opportunity offering increased responsibility, ownership and long-term career development.
What's in it for you?
- Hybrid and flexible working
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, with additional holiday for long service
- 8.5% employer pension contribution
- Bupa Healthcare and Medicash from day one
- Exposure to senior leadership and strategic business projects
- Opportunity to influence operational and financial performance
- Excellent training, development and career progression opportunities
- Join a globally recognised technology leader with a strong culture of innovation and continuous improvement
Key Responsibilities
- Support budgeting, forecasting and business planning activities
- Analyse financial and operational performance, providing insight and recommendations to stakeholders
- Own and improve key finance and operational processes, particularly across Order-to-Cash activities
- Partner with finance, operations and commercial teams to drive business performance
- Support month-end reporting and financial analysis
- Contribute to process improvement and SAP optimisation initiatives
- Monitor KPIs and identify opportunities for continuous improvement
- Support business transformation and change initiatives
What We're Looking For
- Experience in Finance, Management Accounting, Commercial Finance or a similar role
- Someone looking to take the next step into a broader, business-facing position
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Experience supporting budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Commercially minded with a passion for process improvement
- Degree qualified and ideally studying towards, or interested in pursuing, ACCA, CIMA or ACA qualifications
Desirable Experience
- SAP S/4HANA Order-to-Cash or Supply Chain processes
- Process improvement or transformation projects
- Experience working within a multinational organisation
If you're looking for a role that offers greater responsibility, broader business exposure and a clear path for progression, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and take the next step in your finance career with ZEISS.
Finance & Operations Controller in Cambridge employer: Manpower UK
As a leading player in the UK construction materials industry, our company offers a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and development. With competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package, including opportunities for overtime, we ensure our Class 1 HGV drivers are rewarded for their hard work while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule. Join us in Harlow, where you can grow your career in a dynamic environment that values innovation and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance & Operations Controller in Cambridge
✨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 Manpower UK. 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 & Operations Controller in Cambridge
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 Manpower UK.
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 Manpower UK'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 Manpower UK
✨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 Manpower UK.
✨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 Manpower UK 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 Manpower UK 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.
