Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations

JR United Kingdom; Watford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Smiths Detection, a leader in global safety solutions, seeks a Senior Finance Manager to lead their European Operations Finance team. This role involves strategic financial oversight, team leadership, and collaboration across functions to enhance financial operations supporting global manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Recognized accounting qualification or significant manufacturing finance experience.
• Post-qualification experience in large, complex organisations.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of four regional finance analysts.
• Manage monthly operations consolidation and reporting.
• Drive continuous improvement and automation in financial processes.

Skills

Leadership

SAP expertise

Financial analysis

Excel

Power Query

Education

University degree

CPA, CA, CIMA

Tools

Power BI

Power Automate

Job description

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Smiths Detection - Senior Finance Manager - Global Operations, watford, hertfordshire

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Client:

Location:

watford, hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

2

Posted:

04.06.2025

Expiry Date:

19.07.2025

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Job Description:

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.