Finance Manager

Matchtech; Harlow; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence and security firm is seeking a qualified Finance Manager based in Harlow, offering hybrid working. The successful candidate will manage financial rates, engage with senior leadership, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. Ideal candidates have significant experience in finance, strong communication skills, and familiarity with defence financial practices. This is a permanent position aimed at professionals looking to advance their career in an impactful field.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a finance role within the defence sector.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure.
• Knowledge of defence-related financial regulations.

Responsibilities

• Manage relationships with the senior leadership team and financial compliance bodies.
• Ensure accuracy in costing and pricing rates.
• Coordinate programme reporting for audits with MOD.

Skills

People management

Presentational skills

Communication (verbal and written)

Analytical thinking

Negotiation

Education

CIMA/ACCA/ACA Qualification

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Office

Job description

Our client, a leader in the defence and security sector, is seeking a Finance Manager to join their team on a permanent basis. This role will be based in Harlow, Essex or Glenrothes Fife with hybrid working options available. As a Finance Manager, you will be instrumental in managing rates and government accounting, influencing both tactical and strategic aspects of the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage senior leadership team relationships and lead a team of experienced professionals.
• Own Long Range Plan (LRP) and Annual Operating Plan (AOP) rates cycles, including developing and calculating costing and pricing rates.
• Collaborate with Business Programme Finance (BPF) to maximise recoverability of R&D and bid costs.
• Serve as the single point of contact for rates analysis, reporting, and queries.
• Ensure RSL's financial compliance with the Defence Reform Act (DRA) and Federal Acquisition Requirements (FAR).
• Manage relationships with UK MOD Auditors, the Single Source Regulations Office (SSRO), and the Defence Contract Management Agency (DCMA).
• Coordinate programme reporting and audit activities with the MOD.
• Plan and draft Ops Finance communications aligned to calendar requirements.

Job Requirements

• Qualified CIMA/ACCA/ACA Finance Manager with significant experience in a defence-related role.
• Excellent people management and presentational skills.
• Ability to work on multiple concurrent issues under time pressure.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, explaining financial concepts to non-financial staff.
• Experience in a programme environment and knowledge of accounting for long-term contracts.
• Familiarity with the Defence Reform Act, Federal Acquisition Regulations, and MoD procurement methodologies.

Desirable Skills

• Negotiation experience and effective influencing capabilities.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Proficiency with systems such as SAP and Microsoft Office.
• Creative and entrepreneurial mindset for innovative solutions.

If you are an experienced Finance Manager with a background in defence and are looking for a new opportunity to further develop your career, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our client's dynamic and talented team.