At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technical reporting and improve financial processes at M&S.
- Company: Join Marks & Spencer during an exciting transformation phase.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 20% discount, competitive holidays, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to positive change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong technical accounting skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
This is a brilliant opportunity to join Marks & Spencer at a genuinely exciting time of transformation and growth. As we continue to invest in our Manchester Finance team and build a best in class controllership structure, this newly created role offers the chance to make a real impact from day one. As Finance Manager - Technical, you will play a key role in strengthening governance, improving financial processes and providing high quality technical accounting support that enables confident decision making across the business. Reporting to the Senior Finance Manager, Corporate Controllership, you will help build the future of controllership at M&S. You will combine technical expertise with commercial curiosity, excellent judgement, and a continuous improvement approach. This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong qualified accountant who enjoys solving complex problems, improving processes and influencing how finance supports a fast moving, high profile business area.
What you’ll do
- Lead the technical reporting of store closure costs, ensuring high quality outputs, strong process documentation and a robust controls framework.
- Drive the ongoing development and improvement of core financial models and reporting processes to enhance accuracy, efficiency and insight.
- Maintain clear and consistent accounting principles around adjusting items, ensuring strong governance and integrity of financial reporting.
- Provide technical accounting support to the controllership team and wider business, helping to navigate new projects and complex accounting matters.
- Lead, coach and develop a direct report while contributing to a culture of continuous improvement, accountability and financial discipline.
Who you are
- Qualified accountant (ACA) with post qualified experience and strong technical accounting capability.
- Strong knowledge of IFRS, UK adopted IAS and FRS 102, with the ability to apply this knowledge in a practical business environment.
- Excellent attention to detail, alongside a curious and analytical approach to identifying risks, root causes and opportunities for improvement.
- Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to simplify complexity and tell a clear story through the numbers.
- Proven experience of balance sheet accountability, financial controls and involvement in projects or process improvement initiatives.
What’s in it for you?
Working at M&S means being part of something bigger - helping to deliver quality, value and service to millions of customers every day. We’re inclusive, fast-moving and always evolving, with a strong sense of purpose and a focus on doing the right thing. Here are just a few of the benefits that make working here even more rewarding:
- 20% colleague discount on all M&S products and many third-party brands for you and someone in your household, available once you’ve completed your probation.
- Competitive holiday allowance with the option to buy more.
- Discretionary bonus schemes linked to your performance and ours.
- Strong pension and life assurance to help plan for the future.
- Tailored induction and training to support your development from day one.
- Exclusive perks and savings through our M&S Choices portal.
- Market‑leading family policies, including parental, adoption and neonatal leave.
- 24/7 wellbeing support, including virtual GP access and mental health services.
- One paid volunteer day a year to support a cause that matters to you.
Everyone’s welcome
We are ambitious about the future of retail. We’re disrupting, innovating and leading the industry into a more conscientious, inspiring digital era. We’re transforming how we work together and offering our most exciting opportunities yet. Marks & Spencer strives to be an inclusive organisation, trusted and admired by our colleagues, customers and suppliers. Join us and make change happen. We are committed to building diverse and representative teams, where everyone can bring their whole selves to work and be at their best. We support each other and work together to win together.
Finance Manager - Technical in Salford employer: Marks & Spencer Plc
Marks & Spencer is an exceptional employer, especially for those looking to make a significant impact in the finance sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, a culture of inclusivity, and a focus on continuous improvement, M&S offers a dynamic work environment in Manchester that encourages professional growth and innovation. Employees benefit from competitive perks, including generous discounts, flexible family policies, and comprehensive wellbeing support, making it a truly rewarding place to build a career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager - Technical in Salford
✨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 Marks & Spencer Plc. 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 - Technical in Salford
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 Marks & Spencer Plc.
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 Marks & Spencer Plc'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 Marks & Spencer Plc
✨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 Marks & Spencer Plc.
✨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 Marks & Spencer Plc 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 Marks & Spencer Plc 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.
