Finance Business Partner

Ultra; Cheltenham; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the defence and aerospace sector is seeking a Finance Business Partner to join their dynamic Finance team. This role is pivotal in delivering impactful finance business partnering across multiple regions, requiring a blend of technical expertise and strong communication skills. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, leveraging their experience in operational and engineering finance to drive consistency and enhance financial processes. With a commitment to flexible working and a supportive culture, this opportunity promises both professional growth and a chance to make a meaningful impact.

Benefits

Flexible working within core hours

25 days holiday plus option to buy/sell 5 days

Life assurance of four times your annual salary

Flexible benefits package

Pension scheme with contributions up to 7.5%

Sports and Social club

Team events and supportive environment

Qualifications

• Qualified or near-qualified accountant is highly desirable.
• Experience in operational, manufacturing, or engineering finance teams.

Responsibilities

• Assist in designing effective finance business partnering across PCS.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations for financial guidance.

Skills

Financial Analysis

Communication Skills

Stakeholder Management

Operational Accounting

Manufacturing Finance

Education

CIMA

ACCA

ACA

Tools

IFS ERP

Job description

We are Ultra Precision Control Systems

Ultra PCS is a leading developer of mission and safety critical equipment in the defence and aerospace industry. Our team of experts is at the heart of our success, which is why we are dedicated to fostering a safe working environment and a positive culture where every staff member feels valued and respected.

We solve our customers' problems by providing engineering solutions to safety and mission-critical challenges in the air and on the ground. Our solutions are used in the latest military aircraft and vehicles, civil aircraft, and unmanned vehicles.

We also offer innovative products optimized to support the unique challenges of dismounted soldiers. We help ensure our customers reach their destinations safely, achieve their objectives, and keep returning.

Flexible Working

Wherever possible, we consider a variety of working options to suit your lifestyle, including hybrid home/office working, flexible hours, and part or full-time employment. Our values of 'innovating' and 'empowering' inspire us. We welcome new ways of working and trust our staff to get the job done because we believe our business is our people.

Job Description

Ultra Precision Control Systems (PCS) is seeking a Finance Business Partner to join the Finance team. Reporting to the Financial Planning and Business Partnering Leader, the successful candidate will be a key member of the FP&A and Business Partnering team. We are looking for someone skilled in financials and accounting, with excellent communication abilities.

The role involves supporting the Financial Planning and Business Partnering Leader in delivering impactful finance business partnering across PCS UK, PCS US, and CEMS. It has a significant commercial aspect, with the individual expected to generate meaningful value by understanding and improving financial data and processes.

This position is suitable for someone with experience in operational, manufacturing, or engineering accounting who seeks a broad, impactful role requiring technical expertise and strong communication skills. The ideal candidate will be adaptable, experienced, and eager to make an immediate impact in a fast-paced, dynamic environment within a robust PE-backed company.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in designing and delivering effective finance business partnering across PCS UK, PCS US, and CEMS.
• Drive consistency of approach across all aspects of PCS and CEMS.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations, providing daily business support and financial guidance.
• Embed key performance metrics such as labour utilization, efficiency, absorption, standard costs, and inventory turns.
• Support operational teams in creating meaningful budgets.
• Partner with budget holders to ensure cost control and achievement of business targets.
• Identify opportunities to enhance data capture, process improvements, and master data robustness.
• Provide ad hoc analysis and project support as needed.

Candidate Profile:

• A qualified or near-qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA, or ACA) is highly desirable.
• Experience within operational, manufacturing, or engineering finance teams in similar roles.
• Ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders quickly.
• Strong understanding of engineering and operational environments, including supply chain, stores, manufacturing engineering, and quality.
• Ability to produce high-quality, commercially meaningful outputs with a clear audit trail and process documentation.
• Knowledge of ERPs, specifically IFS (desirable).
• Experience in the Defence or Aerospace sectors (desirable).

Benefits:

• Flexible working within core hours.
• 25 days holiday plus the option to buy or sell 5 days, plus bank holidays.
• Life assurance of four times your annual salary.
• Flexible benefits package.
• Pension scheme with contributions up to 7.5% after 5 years.
• Sports and Social club.
• Supportive, friendly environment with team events.

If interested, please follow our application process.

Nationality Requirements

Candidates must be able to work in the UK without restrictions and be willing to undergo UK National Security Vetting.

Diversity & Inclusion

Ultra PCS values diversity, inclusion, and equality. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. We aim to create a workplace where everyone can be their authentic self.