Finance Manager

Brook Street; Northern Ireland; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Finance Manager for a public sector client in South Belfast. The role involves leading finance operations, providing financial insights, and supporting digital transformation. Candidates must have full membership of a UK-recognised accountancy body and at least 3 years of post-qualification experience in finance/accounting. Strong IT skills and knowledge of public sector finance are essential. This is a permanent, full-time position.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' post-qualification experience in finance/accounting.
• Experience with business cases and evaluations.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of the Finance Department.
• Oversee payroll, ensuring compliance.
• Manage cash flow and maximise returns.
• Produce monthly management accounts and financial insights.

Skills

Strong IT skills

Ability to manage varied workload

Knowledge of UK HE and/or public sector finance

Experience with project funding applications

Education

Full membership of a UK-recognised accountancy body

Job description

Finance Manager - Public Sector | South Belfast

Salary: £46,049-£50,253

Hours: 36.5 per week (Mon-Fri)

Permanent, Full Time

Brook Street Recruitment is partnering with our South Belfast client to appoint a full time and permanent Finance Manager. This role is with our public sector client in South Belfast - This role will strengthen the College's financial operations, provide high-quality financial insight, and support digital transformation across finance processes.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Finance Department and supervise staff.
• Oversee payroll, ensuring compliance with regulatory and pension requirements.
• Manage cash flow and maximise returns on surplus funds.
• Oversee Student Support and Bursary Fund administration.

Process Improvement & Digital Transformation

• Review finance processes to improve efficiency and automation.
• Support the adoption and optimisation of finance systems and data tools.
• Assist in developing KPI dashboards and strengthening financial controls across the College.

Compliance & Governance

• Maintain and enhance financial policies, procedures, and controls.
• Prepare statutory and sector returns (e.g., DfE, HESA).
• Lead on year-end accounts, audit preparation, and capital monitoring.
• Support financial risk management and liaise with auditors and insurers.

Strategic Finance

• Produce monthly management accounts, forecasts, and financial insights.
• Support senior leadership in aligning financial planning with strategic goals.
• Prepare annual budgets, long-term forecasts, and provide advice to senior committees.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Provide guidance and training to non-finance staff.
• Act as a key contact for external bodies (e.g., auditors, Student Loan Company).

Projects & Funding

• Review funding applications and monitor financial requirements for funded projects.
• Support business cases, economic appraisals, and post-project evaluations.

Leadership

• Deputise for the Head of Finance when required.
• Promote continuous improvement and support wider College initiatives.

Essential Criteria

• Full membership of a UK-recognised accountancy body.
• Minimum 3 year's post-qualification experience in finance/accounting.
• Strong IT skills and ability to manage a varied workload.
• Knowledge of UK HE and/or public sector finance (incl. SORP, funding structures).
• Experience with project funding applications, business cases, and evaluations.

To apply: Please send your CV to Colleen Farquharson via the apply link.

Brook Street NMR is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.