At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, ensuring smooth performance in a dynamic retail environment.
- Company: Join Cotswold Outdoor Group, where we inspire outdoor adventures.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, generous holiday, and great staff discounts.
- Why this job: Shape financial processes while helping others explore the great outdoors.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance operations within retail and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Exciting new office location in Swindon with growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 55000 ÂŁ per year.
This is a hybrid role with a minimum of three days in the office per week. At Cotswold Outdoor Group, the outdoors isn’t just where we work, it’s who we are. Every day, our head office teams play a vital role in helping people get outside, explore more, and experience the world around them. We’re looking for a Finance Operations Manager to join us on that journey. This role is about more than just day-to-day responsibilities; it’s about shaping how we inspire our customers, support our stores, and grow our community of adventurers. Please note this isn’t an accountancy role, but rather the management of finance operations, where we are looking for someone who has experience in retail preferably (PO's, stock etc). We are moving to central Swindon in April - just a short walk from the train station and the new bus boulevard. It’s an exciting next step in our adventure, and a chance for you to be part of it from the very start. You can take a look at our new location here: 1 Newbridge Square, Swindon.
About Us
We believe life’s better when it’s lived outdoors. From hiking and wild swimming to simply stepping away from the screen, nature helps us feel alive. At our head office, every role helps make those adventures possible. Whether it’s shaping our systems, supporting our teams or driving key initiatives, you’ll play a vital part in helping people get outside and explore more. We’re part of the Cotswold Outdoor Group, including Runners Need and Snow + Rock, offering trusted brands, expert advice, and a commitment to protecting the planet. Whether it’s your first step or your next move, you’ll find opportunities to learn, grow, and be part of something bigger.
What you’ll be doing
- Leading the Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Treasury operations to ensure smooth day-to-day performance
- Overseeing the supplier payment and customer debt collection processes with accuracy and timeliness
- Delivering rolling cashflow and cash outflow forecasts, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams
- Ensuring VAT compliance, supporting tax submissions, and coordinating statutory accounts in line with IFRS
- Streamlining finance processes through automation, AI, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Monitoring key financial KPIs and maintaining robust financial controls over cash, payments, and reconciliations
- Supporting audits with accurate documentation and a “no surprises” approach
- Leading, coaching, and developing a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and professional growth
We’re looking for someone who
- Has strong experience in Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and/or Treasury within a multi-channel retail environment
- Understands VAT, UK financial compliance, and statutory accounts requirements
- Has a proven track record of leading and developing high-performing finance teams
- Demonstrates strong analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills
- Is highly organised, able to manage competing priorities, and embraces continuous improvement
- Operates with integrity, ownership, and a collaborative, solutions-focused approach
- Is experienced in finance system transformations or automation (desirable)
What you’ll get from us
Joining our team means more than just getting paid a salary; it’s about being part of a workplace that values you, your growth and your wellbeing. You’ll enjoy:
- Starting salary of ÂŁ52,000 - ÂŁ55,000 with a yearly bonus of up to ÂŁ3,825
- Hybrid working options to support your work-life balance
- 33 days holiday allowing you to recharge and explore the outdoors
- Private medical insurance, life assurance and critical illness cover
- Staff discounts of 40-60% across our full range of outdoor brands
- Savings on everyday essentials including groceries, travel, fitness, and entertainment through our perks hub
Finance Operations Manager in Swindon employer: Tandem Talent
Contact Detail:
Tandem Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Operations Manager in Swindon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and retail sectors. Attend industry events or local meetups to get your name out there. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Cotswold Outdoor Group and their values. Show them you’re not just about numbers; you’re passionate about the outdoors too! Tailor your answers to reflect how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience in finance operations aligns with their needs. Highlight your achievements in previous roles, especially those that involved leading teams or improving processes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Cotswold Outdoor adventure from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Operations Manager in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Finance Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in retail finance operations, especially in areas like Accounts Payable and Receivable.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about the outdoors and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Share specific examples of how you've led finance teams or improved processes in previous roles.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role involves monitoring financial KPIs and cashflow forecasts, be sure to mention any relevant analytical tools or methods you've used in the past. We love seeing how you approach problem-solving!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity right from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tandem Talent
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of financial metrics. Brush up on key financial KPIs relevant to retail, such as cash flow forecasts and payment processes. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics to drive improvements in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a finance team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've developed high-performing teams in the past. Talk about your coaching style and how you foster accountability and growth within your team. Highlight any specific achievements that showcase your leadership abilities.
✨Emphasise Your Retail Experience
Since experience in a multi-channel retail environment is crucial, make sure to highlight your background in this area. Discuss your familiarity with accounts payable, receivable, and treasury operations in retail settings. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've navigated challenges unique to the retail finance landscape.
✨Be Ready for Process Improvement Discussions
Cotswold Outdoor Group is looking for someone who embraces continuous improvement. Prepare to discuss any initiatives you've led to streamline finance processes, especially through automation or AI. Share concrete examples of how these improvements have positively impacted efficiency and accuracy in your previous roles.