At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, develop teams, and improve systems for better efficiency.
- Company: Dynamic organisation focused on supporting local communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Take ownership of finance functions and influence positive change in the community.
- Qualifications: Recognised accountancy qualification and experience in managing finance teams.
Are you an experienced finance professional who enjoys taking ownership, developing people and making finance functions work better? This is an excellent opportunity to step into a senior finance role where you can make a real difference, combining strong technical accounting expertise with team leadership and a genuine focus on improving systems and processes.
Reporting to the Chief Finance Officer, you will lead the day-to-day delivery of a varied finance operations function, overseeing teams responsible for payroll, accounts payable and housing management finance. The role will involve:
- Leading, supporting and developing operational managers and their teams.
- Overseeing the delivery of accurate and timely financial operations.
- Contributing to management accounts, budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting.
- Taking responsibility for housing management finance and budget reporting.
- Ensuring robust financial controls, reconciliations and compliance.
- Identifying opportunities to improve processes, systems and reporting, including automation.
- Using your technical expertise and advanced Excel skills to improve efficiency and accuracy.
- Working closely with senior leaders and non-finance colleagues, providing clear financial guidance and support.
What we're looking for: You'll have substantial experience in a senior finance role, with a strong grounding in management accounts, budgeting, forecasting and financial controls. You'll also bring:
- A recognised accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA or CIMA), or equivalent senior-level experience and technical expertise.
- Experience managing and developing a finance team.
- Strong knowledge of payroll and accounts payable.
- Advanced Excel skills and experience improving financial systems and processes.
- Excellent communication skills and the confidence to influence and support colleagues across an organisation.
Experience within charity, housing, not-for-profit or support services would be advantageous, as would knowledge of Sage and Power Query.
This is a chance to take ownership of a broad finance function, influence how things are done and make a tangible contribution to an organisation supporting its local communities. If you're a technically strong finance professional who enjoys leading people, solving problems and driving continuous improvement, we'd love to hear from you.
Finance Manager employer: Shearer Associates
Join a well-established business in the heart of Cheltenham, where you'll thrive in a friendly and dynamic work environment. As a Finance Assistant, you'll enjoy a varied role with opportunities for personal growth, supported by a performance-related bonus and a sociable open-plan office atmosphere. This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working alongside a dedicated team in a vibrant location.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨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 Shearer Associates. 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
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 Shearer Associates.
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 Shearer Associates'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 Shearer Associates
✨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 Shearer Associates.
✨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 Shearer Associates 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 Shearer Associates 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.
