At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance team and oversee financial reporting for a major UK brand.
- Company: Join National Express, a leading name in the transport industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, a solid pension scheme, and comprehensive wellbeing support.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the financial future of a major brand while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 5-7 years of experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 77000 £ per year.
Are you a dynamic finance leader ready to shape the financial future of a major UK brand? National Express is looking for a Head of Finance to lead our UK & Ireland Coach Finance team. In this pivotal role, you will oversee everything from transactional finance and financial reporting to management accounting. You will lead a skilled team to ensure a right first time accounting environment, collaborate closely with FP&A and Group Finance, and drive improvement initiatives that make a real impact across the business. This role is based in the West Midlands, placing you at the core of our operations.
What you will do
- Lead & Inspire: Directly manage and mentor the Coach finance team, driving their professional development and establishing clear succession plans.
- Master the Close: Oversee robust month end closing procedures, reviewing and challenging results to ensure absolute accuracy alongside FP&A.
- Own the Numbers: Deliver half year and year end reporting in line with Group schedules, managing statutory accounts, tax disclosures, and accounting position papers.
- Manage Audits: Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external auditors, taking ownership of deliverables and relationship management.
- Drive Cash Flow & Forecasting: Develop balance sheet reporting, indirect cash flow forecasts, and lead direct 13 week cash flow forecasting into Group Treasury.
- Ensure Strong Governance: Maintain robust internal controls, carry out periodic balance sheet deep dives, and ensure compliance across areas like IFRS 15 revenue recognition and IFRS 16 lease accounting.
What you will bring
- Professional Qualifications: Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) with at least 5 to 7 years post qualification experience.
- Leadership Experience: A proven track record of leading, developing, and motivating high performing finance teams.
- Technical Excellence: Deep understanding of UK and international financial reporting standards, with experience handling external auditors and Group Finance teams.
- Analytical Skills: Strong problem solving capability, proficiency in relevant financial software, and a sharp focus on continuous improvement.
- Collaborative Mindset: Exceptional communication skills, a strong work ethic, a true team player mentality, and a good sense of humor.
- Desirable Extras: Industry experience, a background in driving finance change projects, or fluency in Spanish are all major pluses.
What you get for bringing the energy
- Free Travel: Complimentary bus and coach travel across the National Express network for you.
- Travel for your Plus One: Free travel for your nominated person or partner.
- Financial & Health Security: A solid company pension scheme, life assurance, and comprehensive wellbeing support via our Employee Assistance Programme and private online GP service.
Head of Finance in Birmingham employer: National Express Ltd
As a Technical Machine Operator with us, you'll join a dynamic team dedicated to maintaining peak efficiency in automated machinery. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our excellent benefits, including a Birthday Celebration Day off and private medical insurance, alongside a supportive work culture that prioritises health and safety. With opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with the National Technical Department, this role offers a rewarding environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Birmingham
✨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 National Express Ltd. 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 Head of Finance in Birmingham
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 National Express Ltd.
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 National Express Ltd'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 National Express Ltd
✨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 National Express Ltd.
✨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 National Express Ltd 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 National Express Ltd 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.
