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 Guildford employer: SAGENTIA
At Science Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent 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 career development through bespoke 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 Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know someone at Science Group. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company and its financial practices. Understand their KPIs and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills during interviews. Bring examples of how you've interpreted financial data and influenced decisions in previous roles. This will demonstrate your hands-on approach and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Guildford
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. Share specific examples of how you've interpreted financial data and influenced decisions in previous roles.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of data analysis, make sure to showcase your analytical skills in your application. Mention any experience you have with spreadsheet modelling and how you've used data to drive business improvements.
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at SAGENTIA
✨Know Your Numbers
Before the interview, brush up on your financial knowledge and be ready to discuss key metrics relevant to the role. Understand how to interpret P&L statements and be prepared to explain how you would approach budgeting and forecasting.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll need to present financial information to non-financial staff, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully communicated financial data to diverse audiences.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
As a Finance Manager, you'll be leading a team. Be ready to share your experiences in motivating and directing teams. Highlight specific instances where you've improved processes or driven efficiencies within a finance team.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Prepare for scenarios where you might need to analyse large volumes of data or resolve conflicts between competing priorities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
