At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial analysis and reporting to drive business performance and profitability.
- Company: Join Science Group, a cutting-edge organisation in science and technology innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bespoke training, mentoring, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and collaboration across multiple sites.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence consultancy while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified ACA/CIMA/ACCA with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Science Group is an international, AIM listed services and product development organisation operating at the cutting edge of science and technology innovation. We are looking for a Finance Manager for the Sagentia Defence and Aviation Practices to work with the senior leadership team and be an important contributor to the running of the Division. Sagentia Defence and Aviation is a combined ~£10m revenue defence consultancy business with offices in Bristol, Epsom and Harston, near Cambridge.
In this role, you shall work closely with senior management and the consultants to support them in understanding the performance of the business and interpret the financial results and KPIs to maximize cash and profitability, including recommending and subsequently implementing changes to the business processes, operations and controls. You shall use your excellent management skills coupled with a thorough knowledge of finance and commercial principles to utilise, prepare and analyse operational and financial reports and forecasts for the division.
This is a hands-on role and you shall be in the detail to understand the results, ensure their accuracy and explain these results to senior management. Reporting to the Finance Director, you will be expected to direct, lead and most importantly motivate the Finance team to deliver against agreed goals and targets. Following direction from the Finance Director, you shall also help transition operational and finance processes to drive efficiencies and help align the business with the wider Group.
To be successful in this position you will have worked in a similar role with proven work experience, along with a recognised accountancy qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA). The ability to interpret financial information and effectively communicate it to staff without a financial background is essential as well as having confidence when dealing with a wide variety of people and prioritising competing deadlines. This role will be based in our Harston head office with regular travel to the Bristol office along with other group sites.
Key Responsibilities- Preparation of management accounts
- Supporting P&L budgeting and forecasting
- Preparation of reports
- Ownership of process adherence and improvement
- Continual improvement of information reported including heavy use of spreadsheet modelling
- Support to the Finance Director
- Preparation and support for Group and Divisional reporting
- ACA/CIMA/ACCA qualified or equivalent
- Ability to present information in a clear and concise manner and use this to influence others (finance and non-finance staff)
- An analytical approach to resolving problems and finding effective solutions
- Experience in modelling and analysing large volumes of data and interpretation of financial information
- Organised and able to manage competing priorities with multiple stakeholders
- Experience of processing and managing month end routines and process
- Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Excel
We are committed to career development and make a focussed effort to offer bespoke training and mentoring to allow each individual to thrive within their environment and realise personal potential. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package.
Finance Manager in Basingstoke employer: SAGENTIA
At Science Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. As a Finance Manager in our Harston office, you will benefit from a supportive culture that prioritises employee growth through tailored training and mentoring, alongside a competitive salary and benefits package. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the defence and aviation sector while working with a talented team dedicated to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Basingstoke
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Finance Manager role.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interviews by researching the company and its financial performance. We recommend practising common interview questions and having examples ready that showcase your skills in finance and management. Show them you’re not just a number cruncher, but a strategic thinker!
✨Follow Up
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It’s a simple way to show your appreciation and keep yourself fresh in their minds. We believe this small gesture can make a big difference in how they perceive you as a candidate.
✨Apply Through Our Website
If you see a Finance Manager position that excites you, apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and get noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Science Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Basingstoke
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, especially your accountancy credentials like ACA or ACCA. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team at Sagentia Defence and Aviation. Be sure to mention your ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance staff, as this is key for us.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:In your application, don’t forget to showcase your analytical approach to problem-solving. We love candidates who can interpret financial data and present it in a way that influences decision-making. Share examples of how you've done this in the past!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SAGENTIA
✨Know Your Numbers
Before the interview, brush up on key financial metrics and KPIs relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve used these in past positions to drive profitability and efficiency. This shows you’re not just familiar with finance but can apply it practically.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll need to explain financial concepts to non-financial staff, practice simplifying complex information. Use examples from your experience where you successfully communicated financial data to diverse teams. This will demonstrate your ability to bridge the gap between finance and operations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Finance Manager, you’ll be leading a team. Prepare to share specific instances where you motivated your team or improved processes. Highlight your management style and how it aligns with the company’s goals, especially in a hands-on role like this one.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially regarding financial challenges. Think of scenarios where you had to analyse data, make decisions under pressure, or implement changes. Practising these responses will help you feel more confident during the interview.
