Finance Manager - Consultancy Firm

Job Summary

This is a high-visibility role within a high-growth consultancy firm based in central London. The Finance Manager will take ownership of the day-to-day operational finance function, supporting the CFO as the organisation scales its operations and financial infrastructure. This is a hands-on position that combines core accounting duties with strategic process improvement and systems implementation. The successful candidate will manage a junior accountant, oversee month-end close, deliver management accounts, and provide data-driven insights to leadership. This role offers hybrid working, a competitive compensation package, and the opportunity to shape the finance function during a period of exciting growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the complete month-end process, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, and payroll activities, ensuring timely and accurate close.
• Prepare and present monthly management accounts, financial statements, and performance reports for the leadership team.
• Manage and mentor a junior accountant responsible for day-to-day AP and AR duties, fostering professional development and accuracy.
• Work closely with the CFO and founders to provide financial analysis, modelling, and data that supports strategic business decision-making.
• Drive process improvements and support finance transformation initiatives, including system enhancements and implementation projects.
• Manage cash flow, working capital, and short-term financial planning to maintain liquidity and operational efficiency.
• Act as the primary contact for external auditors, ensuring all regulatory, statutory, and compliance requirements are met.
• Support budgeting and forecasting cycles, collaborating with department heads to align financial plans with business goals.
• Handle ad hoc financial analysis and projects as required by the wider business, including M&A support or cost optimisation reviews.

Role Requirements & Qualifications

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) with at least two years of post-qualification experience in a hands-on finance role.
• Proven experience in a small to mid-size organisation, demonstrating a broad breadth of finance knowledge across accounting, reporting, and operations.
• Track record of leading process improvement initiatives and system implementations (e.g., ERP migration, automation tools).
• Strong understanding of UK GAAP / IFRS, audit requirements, and tax compliance.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial data to non-financial stakeholders clearly.
• Self-motivated, comfortable working autonomously, and capable of driving new initiatives and bringing fresh ideas to the business.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and familiarity with cloud-based accounting systems (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, or NetSuite).

Skills Inventory

• Essential: Month-end close management, management accounts preparation, cash flow forecasting, budgeting and forecasting, audit management, staff supervision, advanced Excel, process improvement.
• Preferred: Experience in professional services or consultancy sectors, familiarity with Power BI or other data visualisation tools, knowledge of VAT and corporation tax, project management skills, change management experience.
• Soft Skills: Analytical thinking, leadership, stakeholder management, proactive problem-solving, adaptability, attention to detail.

Salary & Compensation Estimation

Based on market data for a Finance Manager role in a London-based consultancy firm, the expected base salary ranges from GBP 55,000 to GBP 70,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications. The role is advertised with a competitive salary and benefits package, which typically includes private healthcare, pension contributions, bonus potential (5-15% of base), and hybrid working flexibility. Additional perks may include professional development allowances, gym memberships, and travel support. The total compensation, including benefits and bonus, could reach the equivalent of GBP 65,000 to GBP 85,000 per year.