At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial reporting, manage accounts, and support business decisions.
- Company: Join Power Testing Ltd, a leader in critical electrical engineering services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and collaborative team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while working with innovative engineering projects.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in financial reporting and team management.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Role Overview
The role of finance manager will oversee the day-to-day operation of the finance department. Working closely with and reporting to the commercial director, the post holder will take ownership of key financial reporting functions — including the production of management accounts and contract value reconciliation (CVR) reporting — whilst providing financial guidance and support to middle managers and directors across the business.
Power Testing Ltd, a leading UK company specialising in critical electrical engineering and connection services, became part of the MARCH Group in September 2025. This strengthens MARCH’s position as the go-to partner for critical engineering services, now including HV electrical expertise.
Core Responsibilities
- Financial Reporting & Management Accounts
- Lead the preparation and delivery of monthly management accounts, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and clear narrative commentary.
- Produce and maintain CVR (Contract Value Reconciliation) reports, providing meaningful analysis of contract performance and profitability.
- Prepare variance analysis and financial commentary to support business decision‑making at senior level.
- Assist the Commercial Director with the production of budgets, rolling forecasts, and financial models as required.
- Commercial & Business Partnering
- Act as a key finance business partner to middle managers and directors across the business, providing financial insight and support as operational needs arise.
- Work collaboratively with project and operations teams to ensure accurate cost capture and robust financial controls on contracts.
- Support the review of contract profitability and make recommendations to improve financial outcomes.
- Provide ad‑hoc financial analysis and reporting to support senior management as required.
- Finance Team Management
- Manage, motivate, and develop a team of finance staff, setting clear objectives and supporting their ongoing professional development.
- Oversee the day-to‑day running of the finance function including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and bank reconciliations.
- Ensure all financial processes and internal controls are adhered to and continuously reviewed for improvement.
- Manage the month‑end and year‑end close processes, liaising with external accountants and auditors as necessary.
- Compliance & Controls
- Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards, tax obligations, and statutory reporting requirements.
- Maintain robust internal financial controls to safeguard company assets and ensure data integrity.
- Liaise with external auditors, HMRC, and other regulatory bodies as required.
- Support VAT return preparation and ensure all filings are submitted accurately and on time.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience
Essential:
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or qualified by experience (QBE) with a demonstrable track record in a similar role.
- Proven experience in the production of management accounts and financial reporting within an SME setting.
- Experience of CVR reporting or contract-based financial management, ideally within construction, engineering, or electrical/M&E sectors.
- Demonstrated ability to manage and lead a small finance team, including performance management and development.
- Strong Microsoft Excel skills; confident working with financial data and building reports from scratch.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to non‑finance stakeholders.
- A proactive, hands‑on approach with the ability to work independently and manage competing priorities effectively.
- High attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and integrity in all financial matters.
Desirable:
- Experience within the electrical maintenance, M&E contracting, or wider construction/FM sector.
- Familiarity with job costing or project accounting software.
- Experience working directly with a board or senior leadership team in an SME environment.
- Knowledge of CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) tax obligations.
Finance Manager in Chelmsford employer: MARCH
Power Testing Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where finance professionals can thrive. With a strong focus on employee development and collaboration, the company provides ample opportunities for growth within the finance team while ensuring a supportive culture that values accuracy and integrity. Located in the heart of the UK’s engineering sector, employees benefit from being part of a leading firm that is integral to critical electrical engineering services, making every role impactful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who work in engineering or construction. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial reporting skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with management accounts and CVR reporting. We want you to showcase how you can add value to the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research Power Testing Ltd and the MARCH Group! Understanding their business model and recent developments will help you tailor your responses and show you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Manager role. Highlight your experience with management accounts and CVR reporting, as these are key aspects of the job. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role and how your background in financial reporting can benefit us at Power Testing Ltd. Keep it engaging and relevant!
Showcase Your Team Management Skills:Since managing a finance team is part of the gig, don’t forget to mention your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've motivated and developed your team in previous roles. We love a proactive approach!
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at MARCH
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial reporting. Brush up on key metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed accounts and produced management reports in the past. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to analyse contract performance and profitability.
✨Showcase Your Team Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a finance team, so be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Think of specific instances where you've motivated your team or improved their performance. Highlight your experience in setting objectives and supporting professional development.
✨Understand the Business Context
Familiarise yourself with Power Testing Ltd and the MARCH Group's operations. Understand the critical engineering services they provide and how finance plays a role in supporting these functions. This will help you articulate how you can add value as a finance business partner.
✨Prepare for Compliance Questions
Given the importance of compliance in this role, be ready to discuss your experience with accounting standards and tax obligations. Have examples ready that illustrate how you've maintained internal controls and ensured data integrity in previous positions.
