Finance Manager role

In smaller businesses, a Finance Manager may be the most senior finance role and be very similar in practice to the role of a Financial Controller. In larger organisations, the role, experience and responsibilities of a Finance Manager tend to be narrower than those of a Financial Controller, although this can vary widely between businesses.

Typical responsibilities of a Finance Manager

Finance managers with proven experience and good communication skills perform a range of essential tasks such as monitoring cash flow, managing the accounting and monitoring systems for the company’s finances, preparing statutory accounts, quarterly and annual financial reporting and managing a team of finance staff. They also:

  • Act as a finance business partner to the senior management team by providing insight and information on historical performance and forward-looking financial projections.
  • Ensure financial reporting compliance with UK legislation and IFRS.
  • Represent finance in any operational meetings.

Many of these could also be the responsibility of a Financial Controller

Profile of a successful candidate

  • Part-qualified or qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA). Sometimes full qualification and post- qualification experience is required.
  • Working knowledge of audit practices, principles and procedures.
  • Strong management accounting experience.
  • Advanced Excel skills.
  • Experienced people manager.
  • Efficient, effective and highly organised.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proactive approach, with ability to build rapport with suppliers and customers, both internally and externally. 
  • Able to work within tight deadlines.