Job Purpose:

The Senior Financial Manager plays a critical role in the preparation, analysis, and delivery of accurate and timely financial reports. This position is hands-on, responsible for executing the financial reporting process, supporting audits, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements. The role requires strong technical accounting expertise, attention to detail, and effective collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Financial Reporting:
  • Prepare accurate, timely, and comprehensive financial statements, management accounts and reports in line with relevant accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Support the consolidated group reporting process, ensuring consistency and accuracy across all entities.
• Audit Support:
  • Support the Head of Financial Performance with coordination of internal and external audit processes, including preparation of audit schedules, responding to auditor queries, and ensuring timely resolution of audit findings.
  • Provide detailed supporting documentation and analysis as required by auditors.
• Compliance and Controls:
  • Ensure adherence to financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
  • Monitor compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies, escalating issues where necessary.
  • Contribute to the development and enhancement of financial control frameworks.
• Stakeholder Collaboration:
  • Work closely with the Head of Financial Reporting, CFO, and broader finance team to provide financial insights and support business decision-making.
• Process Improvement:
  • Identify opportunities to improve financial reporting processes and implement best practices to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Support the implementation of new systems, processes, and reporting tools to streamline financial operations.
  • Drive automation initiatives to enhance the efficiency of financial reporting workflows, reducing manual effort and improving data accuracy.
  • Develop and maintain automated dashboards to provide real-time financial insights, ensuring key stakeholders have access to accurate and timely data.
• Tax and VAT Compliance:
  • Prepare and submit VAT returns accurately and in accordance with relevant regulations and deadlines.
  • Support the preparation and submission of corporate tax returns, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations.
  • Liaise with tax advisors and regulatory authorities to address any tax-related queries or audits.
• Budgeting and Forecasting Support:
  • Assist in the preparation of budgets, forecasts, and financial plans as part of the FP&A process.
  • Contribute to the development of dashboards and management reports for key stakeholders.
• Team Support and Development:
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.
  • Act as a key support to the Head of Financial Reporting, stepping in as needed to support strategic initiatives.

Key Competencies:

• Technical Expertise in Financial Reporting
• Strong Organisational and Time Management Skills
• Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Effective Communication and Collaboration
• Proactive Approach to Process Improvement
• High Level of Integrity and Professionalism

Qualifications and Experience:

• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) is essential.
• 3+ years post-qualification experience in a senior finance role, ideally within a complex or regulated industry.
• Proven experience in financial reporting within a complex, fast-paced environment and large corporate structure.
• Strong technical knowledge of IFRS and other relevant accounting standards.
• Experience in managing audits and liaising with external auditors.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in financial systems and advanced Excel skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.