Finance Manager

Scottish Prison Service; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A governmental organization is seeking a Finance Manager to oversee budget management and financial systems compliance. The ideal candidate will possess an HNC in accountancy or equivalent, and have extensive experience in budget planning and analysis. Responsibilities include managing the establishment's annual budget, advising management on financial matters, and leading a team within the Finance department.

Qualifications

• Experience in budget planning, monitoring, and forecasting.
• Proficient in Windows-based financial management systems.
• Strong knowledge of accounting processes, including accruals and reconciliations.
• Ability to analyze financial data and support management decisions.

Responsibilities

• Advise on budgets and policy matters related to Finance.
• Manage financial systems and ensure compliance.
• Ensure procurement activities adhere to policies.
• Lead and train staff within Finance and Administration.
• Manage the annual budget and provide finance service.

Skills

Budget planning

Financial management systems

Accounting processes

Data analysis

Education

HNC in accountancy or equivalent

Job description

With support and guidance, the post holder is responsible for ensuring the integrity of all data processed through the systems within their remit, in compliance with Scottish Prison Service (SPS) policies and guidance. The role also involves ensuring that all business processes, systems, and procedures are robust, controlled, and audit-ready. As a member of the establishment’s Senior Management Team (SMT), the Finance Manager oversees budget management and reporting to support operational success.

The post holder will have line management responsibilities across non-operational business areas, ensuring staff are trained to meet the evolving demands of the prison environment.

Responsibilities

• Advise the Governor and SMT on budgets and policy matters related to Finance and Business.
• Manage financial systems and ensure compliance with policies, including month and year-end reconciliations, safeguarding assets, and controlling cash and bank accounts.
• Ensure procurement activities adhere to policies and procedures.
• Lead, motivate, and train staff within the Finance and Administration department, supporting their development through HR policies.
• Manage the establishment’s annual budget, including planning, devolvement, and projections.
• Provide a flexible and proactive Finance & Administration service aligned with the needs of the establishment and SPS.

Person Specification

SPS recruitment is based on our Competencies for Success Framework, assessing key behaviors relevant to the role.

Qualification Requirements

HNC in accountancy, qualified Accounting Technician, or equivalent.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

• Experience in budget planning, monitoring, and forecasting supporting delivery plans. Essential
• Proficient in using Windows-based financial management systems, managing stock control, and handling accounts payable and receivable, ensuring compliance with legislation such as VAT. Essential
• Strong knowledge of accounting processes, including preparing accruals, prepayments, and managing reconciliations for financial reports. Essential
• Ability to analyze financial data, identify issues, and support management decision-making. Essential