At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance systems management and optimise technology platforms for financial processes.
- Company: Join Railpen, a key player in pension fund management with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days leave, health plans, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on finance technology while shaping the future of pension management.
- Qualifications: Experience with complex tech architecture and project delivery in finance systems.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity to join our Finance Development team as a Senior Finance Manager – Systems and Data on a fixed term basis (12 months) based in our Darlington office (hybrid working).
Railpen is responsible for the safekeeping and investment of around £34 billion in assets and the administration of several pension schemes, including the Railways Pension Scheme, one of the UK's largest and longest established pension funds. Our heritage of looking after the pension needs of the rail industry and its employees gives us our name and our unique outlook on how we serve our members. Railpen takes a holistic view, focusing on how we serve members today and how we can positively impact the communities and the world they will retire into.
The Senior Finance Manager plays a critical leadership role within the Finance Development function, taking end-to-end accountability for the day-to-day management, development, and optimisation of all finance technology platforms outside of Workday. Working closely with the Head of Finance Development and the Workday Functional Team, this role is responsible for ensuring the smooth operation and strategic alignment of non-Workday systems with the organisation’s financial processes and goals. In addition, this role serves as the finance systems lead for organisation-level change initiatives, ensuring that finance requirements are embedded in cross-functional transformation programmes and that finance system integrity is maintained throughout change cycles.
The successful candidate will have experience of working with a complex technology architecture, comprising of in-house built applications and off the shelf packages. You will have previously established frameworks, processes and appropriate controls, for understanding and enabling the continuous improvement and management of systems. Experience of using Financial packages including accounting software and payment systems would be advantageous, but not essential. Knowledge of working with Microsoft technology stack and Workday would also be beneficial. We are looking for someone who can take ownership and build excellent relationships with key suppliers. You will have significant experience of project delivery, as a key part of the role will be the Finance Technical Lead on the upgrade/migrations of Finance systems and databases, as well as leading on changes to Finance systems needed to support wider business change.
As well as getting involved in the detail, you will play a very important role in the development of the strategic Finance technology roadmap - ensuring short-term decisions are being made with the longer-term requirements for the Finance function in mind, partnering closely with Finance leaders, as well as Technology and Change teams. Excellent communication skills are key for this role as you will be required to present recommendations and solutions to Senior business leaders. Experience of coaching and motivating a high-performing team is also very important.
What we can offer you:
- 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro rata)
- Employee assistance programme
- Health cash plan
- Give as you earn scheme
Please apply for the apply button or visit Careers Page by 5pm on 10th April 2026. Railpen is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment, we value diversity and welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Senior Finance Systems and Data Manager employer: Railpen
Contact Detail:
Railpen Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Systems and Data Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and tech 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 or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Railpen and its values. Understand their approach to finance technology and how they serve their members. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your project delivery skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led finance system upgrades or migrations. Highlight your ability to manage change and maintain system integrity, as this is crucial for the 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 Railpen team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Finance Systems and Data Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Senior Finance Systems and Data Manager. Highlight your experience with finance technology platforms and any relevant project delivery you've been involved in. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've managed finance systems or led projects, and don’t forget to show your enthusiasm for joining Railpen.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well. We want to see that you can present ideas effectively, just like you would to senior business leaders.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Railpen
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the technology stack mentioned in the job description, especially Microsoft technologies and any finance systems you've worked with. Be ready to discuss how you've optimised or managed these systems in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading projects and teams. Think about times when you’ve motivated a team or driven change initiatives, as this role requires strong leadership capabilities.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Research Railpen’s mission and values, and be prepared to discuss how your role as a Senior Finance Manager aligns with their goals. This shows that you’re not just interested in the position, but also in contributing to the organisation's purpose.
✨Practice Your Communication
Since excellent communication skills are key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to present your ideas on finance system improvements or project delivery strategies, as you’ll need to impress senior leaders.