Procurement Manager

Thales Group; Crawley; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense and aerospace company is looking for a Finance Manager to oversee financial performance in Crawley, United Kingdom. This role involves financial oversight of logistics operations, developing budgets and forecasts, and collaborating with internal teams and third-party providers. Candidates should possess strong strategic insight, experience in commercial finance, and advanced Excel skills. A fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) is essential for this position.

Qualifications

• Strong commercial and strategic insight focused on financial performance.
• Experience in logistics or supply chain roles with expertise in financial modelling.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with financial planning systems.

Responsibilities

• Act as a strategic finance leader for logistics and distribution teams.
• Develop and deliver budgets, forecasts, and financial plans.
• Build relationships with third-party logistics providers.

Skills

Commercial insight

Logistics expertise

Financial modelling

Data analysis

Stakeholder influence

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Time management

Education

Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA)

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

As Finance Manager within the Distribution & Logistics Finance team, you will lead financial oversight and strategic analysis of freight and logistics operations. You will act as a key business partner to both internal stakeholders and third‑party providers, driving financial performance, cost efficiency, and operational alignment across the supply chain.

Location

Crawley, United Kingdom

Responsibilities

• Act as a strategic finance leader and trusted advisor to the Logistics and Distribution Services teams, providing financial insight and challenge to support business objectives.
• Lead the development and delivery of budgets, forecasts, and financial plans, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and alignment with corporate goals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with third-party logistics providers to ensure financial transparency, compliance, and performance tracking.
• Oversee invoice validation and cost control processes in collaboration with freight auditors and external partners.
• Evaluate the financial impact of operational initiatives, including infrastructure investments and process improvements.
• Enhance reporting and visibility of supply chain metrics to support cross-functional teams including Buying, Merchandising, and Logistics.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial processes, tools, and reporting to support decision‑making and operational efficiency.
• Business partner across finance to ensure correct accounting for freight costs in the P&L.
• Contribute to broader Commercial Finance initiatives, supporting both Distribution & Logistics and enterprise-wide financial strategies.

Qualifications

• Strong commercial and strategic insight, with a focus on operational efficiency and financial performance.
• Proven experience in logistics, supply chain, or commercial finance roles, supported by expertise in financial modelling and data analysis.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial planning systems.
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional collaboration and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Skilled in evaluating business processes and leading the implementation of improvement initiatives.
• Thrives in fast‑paced, dynamic environments with strong prioritisation and time management.
• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA), with a solid foundation in financial governance and reporting.

You must have the legal right to work in the country you are applying to.