Financial Manager Job Description and Responsibilities

The Financial Manager is responsible for overseeing financial planning, reporting and control activities. This role is suited to candidates with proven accounting knowledge, strong analytical skills and experience managing budgets and month end processes. Applicants should be comfortable working with senior stakeholders and leading financial initiatives to support business objectives.

Financial Manager Job Profile

The Financial Manager leads the preparation and analysis of management accounts, forecasts and budgets to support operational decision making. The role ensures accurate financial reporting, compliance with accounting standards and effective internal controls across the finance function.

The purpose of the role is to provide timely financial insight, manage cash and working capital, and support strategic planning by translating financial data into actionable recommendations. The post holder will typically report to a head of finance or finance director and may supervise a small finance team.

Financial Manager Job Description

The Financial Manager prepares month end close activities, consolidates accounts and produces management information including variance explanations and trend analysis. They develop and maintain robust financial processes and controls, ensuring accuracy of records and adherence to statutory and regulatory requirements. The role involves regular liaison with operational managers to prepare budgets, monitor performance and implement corrective actions where necessary.

In addition to transactional and reporting duties, the Financial Manager contributes to longer term financial planning and forecasting, cash flow management and scenario analysis. They coordinate audit processes, support tax filings and drive continuous improvement in financial systems and procedures. Good communication and the ability to present complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders are essential.

Financial Manager: Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and review monthly management accounts and financial statements.
• Manage the month end and year end close processes to meet reporting deadlines.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting and long term financial planning activities.
• Produce variance analysis and explain key financial trends to stakeholders.
• Monitor cash flow, working capital and treasury requirements.
• Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure data integrity.
• Coordinate external and internal audit activities and respond to audit queries.
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and statutory obligations.
• Develop financial models and scenario analyses to support business decisions.
• Oversee cost control measures and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Provide financial advice and support to operational managers and senior leadership.
• Supervise and coach finance staff, reviewing workloads and development needs.
• Prepare management reports and presentations for board and executive review.
• Support tax planning and ensure accurate preparation of tax returns where required.
• Drive process improvements in finance workflows and reporting automation.

Financial Manager: Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics or related discipline.
• Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA) or equivalent professional qualification preferred.
• Minimum five years' experience in a finance role with progressive responsibility.
• Proven experience producing management accounts, budgeting and forecasting.
• Strong knowledge of accounting standards such as UK GAAP or IFRS.
• Practical experience of internal controls, audit processes and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent analytical and numerical skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders.
• Demonstrable leadership and team management skills.
• Competent in the use of financial systems and strong spreadsheet skills.
• Ability to prioritise, meet deadlines and work effectively under pressure.
• Problem solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.