At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, deliver reports, and drive process improvements in a growing business.
- Company: Fast-growing firm in an innovative industry with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and genuine progression opportunities.
- Other info: High-visibility role with autonomy to influence financial processes.
- Why this job: Shape financial strategy and make a visible impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Chartered Accountant with 3+ years' experience and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 75000 £ per year.
Finance Manager Senior finance role reporting directly to the International Controller Genuine scope to shape financial control and commercial strategy in a growing business Real opportunity for progression as the finance function scales On-site, full-time, permanent Competitive salary + benefits package About the Company Our client is a well-established and fast-growing firm operating in an innovative, specialist industry, with an international footprint and ambitious growth plans.
They're investing heavily in strengthening their finance function to support continued expansion, making this a genuinely exciting time to join.
The Role This is a senior finance appointment, reporting to the International Controller and working closely with the wider finance leadership team.
You'll take ownership of day-to-day finance operations, deliver accurate financial reporting, and act as a trusted voice on financial control and commercial insight.
It's a role suited to someone who's confident operating at pace, comfortable influencing senior stakeholders, and keen to make a visible impact on the business's financial performance.
Key Responsibilities Lead the monthly close process, ensuring deadlines and expectations are clearly managed across the finance team.
Prepare and present monthly management accounts, financial reports and performance analysis to senior management.
Analyse and interpret month-end results, reporting on key variances and the drivers behind them.
Manage the year-end audit process as the key point of contact for external auditors.
Drive improvements to financial processes, controls and reconciliations across the business.
Monitor direct costs, overheads and inventory valuations to protect working capital.
Build strong cross-functional relationships to embed best practice and support growth.
Coach and develop finance team members, including setting goals and training plans.
Advise the wider business on accounting treatment and support ERP implementation where required.
What You'll Need Essential Chartered Accountant - ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent, with 3+ years' PQE.
Proven experience providing financial leadership within a manufacturing and/or parts and service environment.
Track record of influencing senior leadership and executive-level stakeholders.
Strong analytical skillset, including confident use of BI and reporting tools alongside advanced Excel.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build relationships and work effectively across teams.
Right to work in the UK, based in or commutable to Ballymena.
Desirable / Bonus Experience implementing accounting software and/or ERP systems.
Big 4 background.
Experience with integrated accountancy systems such as Sage 500.
Why Apply?
Competitive salary + benefits package.
On-site role based in Ballymena, with a stable, full-time permanent contract.
High-visibility position working directly with senior finance leadership.
Genuine autonomy to shape financial processes and controls, not just maintain them.
Join a growing business in an innovative industry, at an exciting stage of expansion.
Real opportunity for progression as the finance function scales.
Interested in finding out more?
For more information or a confidential discussion about this role, get in touch with Emma Groves at Ocho People.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Ballymena
✨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 Ocho. 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 in Ballymena
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 Ocho.
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 Ocho'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 Ocho
✨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 Ocho.
✨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 Ocho 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 Ocho 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.