SAP Finance Function Lead

Novanta Inc.; Stockport; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary with bonus opportunities

Flexible working approach

Structured career development

Job summary

Novanta Inc. is seeking an SAP Finance Functional Lead to join its Global Transformation Programme based in Stockport. This role offers high visibility and the chance to significantly influence finance processes globally, shaping design initiatives rather than merely implementation.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong finance background, extensive S/4HANA expertise, and a solid grasp of finance processes. The organization promotes a flexible working approach supporting work-life balance, along with a structured career development path.

Qualifications

• Strong background in Finance with expertise in S/4HANA.
• Experience in ERP transformation programmes.
• In-depth understanding of Finance processes including GL, AP/AR.

Responsibilities

• Represent Finance in global design decisions.
• Validate end-to-end Finance processes.
• Drive data readiness and migration.

Skills

Strong Finance background

S/4HANA expertise

ERP transformation experience

Finance process understanding (GL, AP/AR, controlling)

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement skills

Education

Professional Finance qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CPA)

Tools

SAP Activate methodology

Job description

Role Overview

SAP Finance Functional Lead – Global Transformation Programme – Hybrid Working (Stockport). Join a major SAP S/4HANA transformation where Finance shapes the future operating model.

Responsibilities

• Represent Finance in global design decisions.
• Validate end-to-end Finance processes (GL, AP/AR, controlling, assets).
• Drive data readiness and migration.
• Lead Finance testing, cutover and go‑live support.

Why this role stands out

High visibility and strategic role within transformation. Real influence over global Finance processes and opportunity to shape design, not just implement.

Qualifications

• Strong Finance background with S/4HANA expertise.
• Experience in ERP transformation programmes.
• In‑depth understanding of Finance processes including GL, AP/AR, fixed assets, controlling, costing, and period close.
• Ability to constructively challenge design decisions using practical Finance knowledge.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Desirable Professional Finance qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CPA).
• Exposure to multiple S/4HANA modules (FI, CO, AA, PS).
• Experience in manufacturing or multi‑entity corporate environments.
• Familiarity with SAP Activate methodology.

Travel Requirements

As required for program milestones and deliverables.

Benefits

• Competitive, market‑aligned salary with bonus opportunities and pension contributions.
• Flexible working approach to support work‑life balance.
• Structured career development with access to learning, progression and international opportunities.
• Culture focused on accountability, practical problem solving and continuous improvement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Novanta is proud to be an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action workplace. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, military and veteran status, disability, genetics or any other category protected by federal law or Novanta policy. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please inform the Talent Acquisition Partner. Please call [phone] if you need a disability accommodation for any part of the employment process.