Finance Manager
SOC 11-3031.00 · ESCO 1211 · OSCA 111231
Role snapshot
Overview
Oversees budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting for an organisation, ensuring cash flow remains healthy and providing critical financial insights to leadership for strategic decision-making. This role involves managing financial operations, conducting analysis, and developing strategies to improve financial performance and mitigate risks.
Crucial for an organisation's financial health and strategic direction, enabling informed decision-making, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving profitability and sustainable growth.
On the job
- Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial models to support strategic planning
- Prepare and present financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements
- Conduct financial analysis to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for cost reduction or revenue growth
- Manage cash flow, monitor financial performance, and ensure compliance with financial regulations
- Lead and mentor a team of finance professionals, overseeing their daily activities and professional development
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Typically requires a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field; an MBA or professional certifications like CPA or CFA are often preferred.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Finance Manager
Finance & Investment
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
enterprising · ECS
People who enjoy leading, influencing, and making strategic decisions, combined with a strong aptitude for organizing, analyzing detailed financial data, and collaborating effectively with others, tend to thrive in this role.
Personality characteristics
Methodical
Approaches financial tasks with precision, order, and a strong adherence to established procedures and regulations.
Decisive Leader
Comfortable making important financial decisions, influencing stakeholders, and guiding a team towards financial objectives.
Calm Under Pressure
Maintains composure and clear thinking during periods of financial scrutiny, deadlines, or unexpected challenges.
Collaborative
Works effectively with cross-functional teams and communicates complex financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues.
Analytical
Enjoys delving into data, identifying patterns, and using financial information to solve problems and inform strategy.
Best for
- Individuals who enjoy leading and shaping an organisation's financial strategy.
- Professionals who thrive on detailed financial analysis and reporting.
- Those who are adept at managing teams and communicating complex financial information effectively.
Watch out for
- The role involves high levels of responsibility and accountability for an organisation's financial health.
- Requires continuous learning to stay updated on financial regulations and market changes.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Finance Manager — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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