At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse financial data and support operations with insights for better decision-making.
- Company: Join the LH Group, part of Wabtec UK Ltd, in a dynamic team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that prioritises people and offers growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising finance operations in the rail industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance or manufacturing is a plus; we value potential over perfection.
The predicted salary is between 58500 - 71500 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Operations FP&A Analyst to join our team at the LH Group (a Division of Wabtec UK Ltd) based in Burton on Trent. We support our customers through maintenance and operation optimisation with customised solutions for spare parts, repair, and overhaul activities on existing trains.
This role sits at the intersection of Finance and Operations and is designed to progressively evolve the site to a forward‑looking Operations Finance model. The Operations Finance Analyst acts as a finance business partner to site leadership, supporting manufacturing, field services and engineering teams with cost visibility, performance analysis and decision support, while ensuring strong cost discipline, inventory control and capital governance.
What will your typical day look like?
- Perform monthly variance analysis (material, labour, overhead, volume and mix) and translate results into clear operational insights and actions, including headcount analysis reporting.
- Support Variable Cost Productivity (VCP), cost‑out and productivity initiatives.
- Provide financial analysis and ad hoc support for operations, field services and engineering activities, including backlog, throughput, and cost drivers.
- Support standard cost setting and annual cost roll processes, ensuring accuracy and transparency.
- Monitor inventory performance, including excess and obsolete inventory, slow‑moving items and inventory turns.
- Partner with supply chain and operations to improve working capital performance through better inventory discipline.
- Contribute to PPV analysis and sourcing deflation tracking.
- Provide finance support to sourcing and procurement activities, including cost analysis and supplier insights.
- Track and analyse capital expenditures, ensuring alignment with approved business cases.
What do we want to know about you?
- You will either be qualified by experience or part/fully qualified (ACA, CIMA, ACCA).
- Experience in a manufacturing environment is desirable but not essential.
- Experienced with presenting financial data.
- IT literate and fully conversant with all Microsoft office applications and MRP.
- Excellent organisational and prioritising skills.
If you don’t have all the above criteria don’t worry, we would still like to hear from you as we live our values always put people first, and strive to expand what is possible.
Legal authorisation to work in the UK is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.
We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.
Need accommodation? Just let us know - we’ve got you.
Operations Finance Analyst employer: Wabtec Corporation
Wabtec Corporation is an exceptional employer located in Lincoln, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and teamwork within the Napier Turbocharger division. Employees benefit from a strong focus on continuous improvement, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to maintaining high-quality standards in manufacturing. Join us to be part of a culture that values your contributions and supports your growth in the engineering field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Finance Analyst
✨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 Wabtec Corporation. 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 Operations Finance Analyst
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 Wabtec Corporation.
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 Wabtec Corporation'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 Wabtec Corporation
✨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 Wabtec Corporation.
✨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 Wabtec Corporation 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 Wabtec Corporation 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.
