Finance Manager in Harlow

Our client, a leader in the defence and security sector, is seeking a Finance Manager to join their team on a permanent basis. This role will be based in Harlow, Essex or Glenrothes Fife with hybrid working options available. As a Finance Manager, you will be instrumental in managing rates and government accounting, influencing both tactical and strategic aspects of the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage senior leadership team relationships and lead a team of experienced professionals.
• Own Long Range Plan (LRP) and Annual Operating Plan (AOP) rates cycles, including developing and calculating costing and pricing rates.
• Collaborate with Business Programme Finance (BPF) to maximise recoverability of R&D and bid costs.
• Serve as the single point of contact for rates analysis, reporting, and queries.
• Ensure RSL\’s financial compliance with the Defence Reform Act (DRA) and Federal Acquisition Requirements (FAR).
• Manage relationships with UK MOD Auditors, the Single Source Regulations Office (SSRO), and the Defence Contract Management Agency (DCMA).
• Coordinate programme reporting and audit activities with the MOD.
• Plan and draft Ops Finance communications aligned to calendar requirements.

Job Requirements

• Qualified CIMA/ACCA/ACA Finance Manager with significant experience in a defence-related role.
• Excellent people management and presentational skills.
• Ability to work on multiple concurrent issues under time pressure.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, explaining financial concepts to non-financial staff.
• Experience in a programme environment and knowledge of accounting for long-term contracts.
• Familiarity with the Defence Reform Act, Federal Acquisition Regulations, and MoD procurement methodologies.

Desirable Skills

• Negotiation experience and effective influencing capabilities.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Proficiency with systems such as SAP and Microsoft Office.
• Creative and entrepreneurial mindset for innovative solutions.

If you are an experienced Finance Manager with a background in defence and are looking for a new opportunity to further develop your career, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our client\’s dynamic and talented team.