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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function, manage budgets, payroll, and ensure compliance.
- Company: Join McKinlay Kidd, an award-winning employee-owned tour operator.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing business while enjoying a dynamic work environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with 3-5 years of finance management experience.
- Other info: Hands-on role in a people-first company focused on unforgettable travel experiences.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Established in 2003, McKinlay Kidd is a multiple award-winning tour operator, and as of 2024, we proudly became an employee-owned business. We truly are a people first company and everyone in our team actively contributes to our success. We specialise in experience led and tailormade holidays throughout Scotland, Ireland, England, Wales and the Channel Islands. Our customers are predominantly older, well-educated and well-travelled from both the UK and overseas. They expect and value exceptional service, many of them return to us time after time because we consistently listen and care about everything we do.
We are now looking for an office-based Finance Manager who isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and take full ownership of our financial health as we enter our next phase of growth. Competitive salary depending on experience.
The Role
Reporting directly to an offsite Fractional FD and with a dotted line into the Managing Director, you will be the day-to-day finance lead for the business. Supported by a keen and capable Finance Assistant, you will cover everything from overseeing supplier payments through to reporting, budgeting, tax and payroll. In addition to your finance responsibilities, you will support the smooth running of the business by looking after facilities and office management tasks. This is a well-rounded role, ideal for someone wanting to take the next step on their career journey, and make their mark on a growing business.
Key Responsibilities
- Operational Finance
- Manage the day-to-day finance function: Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Bank Reconciliations, supported by Finance Assistant.
- Oversee supplier payments, ensuring timely settlements with international partners.
- Manage payroll (liaising with external payroll bureau) and staff expenses.
- Produce accurate monthly management accounts, including P&L, balance sheet and cashflow, along with variance analysis.
- Manage the annual budgeting process and re-forecasting throughout the year.
- Manage the year-end process and liaise with external accountants for statutory reporting.
- Compliance & Travel Regulation
- Prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns, specifically calculating the Tour Operators Margin Scheme (TOMS).
- Facilities & Office Management
- Be the point of contact for all facilities issues – maintenance, repairs and compliance.
- Take the lead on business and office insurance coverage.
- Manage the maintaining of office supplies.
About You
Qualifications & Experience
- Qualified Accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ICAS) or Qualified by Experience (QBE) with a strong track record.
- Minimum 3–5 years in a finance management role, ideally within an SME environment.
- Previous experience in a tour operator or travel agency is highly desirable, but not essential.
- Proficiency in cloud accounting software (e.g. Xero) and strong Excel skills.
Soft Skills
- Commercial Acumen: You understand that finance is there to support business growth, not just record transactions.
- Hands‑on Attitude: As a small business, we all chip in. You are happy processing an invoice one minute and dealing with boiler repairs the next.
- Attention to Detail: Precision is vital when dealing with customer monies and regulatory bodies.
- A Desire to Learn: Even if you lack direct experience of some of the outlined responsibilities, but can demonstrate a desire to learn and a self‑starter attitude, we want to hear from you.
Seniority level Mid-Senior level
Employment type Full-time
Job function Finance and Sales
Industries Travel Arrangements
Finance Manager employer: McKinlay Kidd Ltd
Contact Detail:
McKinlay Kidd Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and travel sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching McKinlay Kidd and understanding their values. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission of providing exceptional service. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets what they’re all about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills can help manage their financial health and support their growth. Keep it concise and focus on your hands-on attitude and attention to detail – those are key for this role!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at McKinlay Kidd. Let’s get you that Finance Manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Finance Manager role. Highlight your finance management experience, especially in an SME environment, and don’t forget to mention any relevant software skills like Xero!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for our team. Share your passion for finance and how you can contribute to our people-first culture at McKinlay Kidd.
Show Off Your Soft Skills: We love candidates who bring more than just technical skills to the table. Make sure to showcase your commercial acumen, hands-on attitude, and attention to detail in your application. We want to see how you can support our growth!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at McKinlay Kidd Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets, forecasts, and reports in previous roles. Show them you can not only crunch numbers but also interpret what they mean for the business.
✨Show Your Hands-On Attitude
This role requires someone who isn’t afraid to get stuck in. Prepare examples of times when you’ve rolled up your sleeves to solve problems or manage tasks outside of your usual responsibilities. This will highlight your adaptability and willingness to contribute to the team’s success.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Precision is key in finance, especially when dealing with customer funds and compliance. Be ready to share specific instances where your attention to detail made a difference, whether it was catching an error in a report or ensuring compliance with regulations.
✨Express Your Desire to Learn
Even if you don’t have direct experience in every area mentioned, convey your eagerness to learn and grow. Share examples of how you’ve taken the initiative to develop new skills or knowledge in your career. This shows that you’re a self-starter who’s committed to personal and professional growth.
