Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations

Cielo Talent; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the defense sector is seeking a Senior Finance Manager for their Global Operations team in Hemel Hempstead. This high-impact role involves team leadership, managing financial operations, and collaborative reporting. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in operational finance, strong SAP skills, and a commitment to driving financial excellence in a complex global environment.

Qualifications

• Recognised accounting qualification required, experience in manufacturing finance.
• Strong SAP and Excel proficiency a must.
• Proven leadership skills and ability to manage priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of finance analysts.
• Manage monthly operations reporting for accuracy.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial processes.

Skills

Leadership

SAP expertise

Financial analysis

Operational finance best practices

Excel proficiency

Education

Recognised accounting qualification (CPA, CA, CIMA)

University degree

Tools

PowerBI

PowerAutomate

Job description

Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations

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Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations

Smiths Detection | Division of Smiths Group plc

Reports to: Finance Director – Global Operations

About Smiths Detection

Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security. Part of Smiths Group, a FTSE 100 company, we are driven by the mission to make the world a safer place. Our solutions help detect and identify explosives, weapons, chemical agents, biohazards, and narcotics — protecting people and critical infrastructure every day. With a global presence and a strong culture of innovation, we empower our teams to solve complex problems with cutting-edge technology.

The Opportunity

Are you an experienced finance professional with a passion for operational excellence and team leadership? Smiths Detection is seeking a Senior Finance Manager – Global Operations to lead our European team of Operations Finance Analysts.

This is a newly created, high-impact role offering strategic influence, cross-functional collaboration, and the opportunity to shape the financial operations that support our global manufacturing footprint.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of four regional finance analysts, driving performance and professional growth.
• Act as the key point of contact for regional financial issues and ensure consistency in execution and reporting.
• Drive continuous improvement and automation in financial processes across global operations.
• Manage monthly operations consolidation and reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Lead financial planning cycles (quarterly, annual, strategic), aligning with divisional targets.
• Analyse and report on manufacturing variances, cost trends, and inventory drivers.
• Oversee cost roll processes, absorption reporting, and standard cost maintenance.
• Collaborate with operations teams across Quality, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Logistics to enhance reporting and insights.
• Ensure compliance with SAP and finance policies, safeguarding financial controls and inventory integrity.

What You Bring

• Recognised accounting qualification (or equivalent significant experience in manufacturing finance).
• Strong SAP expertise, particularly in master data and system structure.
• Proficiency in Excel, Power Query, and M365 tools.
• Deep understanding of global inventory accounting and operational finance best practices.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire and challenge teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and influence key stakeholders.
• University degree and formal accounting qualification (CPA, CA, CIMA).
• Experience with PowerBI and PowerAutomate.
• Post-qualification experience in large, complex organisations with global operations.

Why Smiths Detection?

At Smiths Detection, you’ll be part of a purpose-driven organisation at the forefront of global safety and security. We invest in innovation and in our people—giving you the opportunity to lead, shape strategy, and drive impactful change.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Apply now to join our high-performing Global Operations Finance team and help us shape the future of safe and efficient global commerce.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Finance

• Industries

  Defense and Space Manufacturing

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