Client Finance Manager

This role is at the centre of our Holding team in London and Manchester. We've got a mix of skills here, from Finance and Hospitality to Recruitment, People & Culture, IT Support and Marketing. Think of us as the backbone of the company, keeping things running smoothly and helping out everywhere we can. We're the ones who answer questions, toss around ideas, offer support, and plan those fun outings and initiatives everyone loves. We're the reliable crew that everyone counts on to keep things rolling.

JOB PURPOSE:

The Client Finance department works across a wide variety of stakeholders, countries and nationalities and its work is critical to the company's strategic decision making with client accounts. We are looking for an expert to manage our Client Finance function, leading a small team to provide valuable insights into client accounts and act as a true business partner to the business, enabling management to make sound business decisions across teams in the UK & Ireland. You need to be a proactive thinker who enjoys problem solving, communicating with non-financial stakeholders, and being a team player.

Client Finance Responsibilities include:

1. Design, implement, and own the client and product-specific reporting needs.
2. Monitor projects to ensure accurate information is uploaded into the PSA tool.
3. Ensure client tracking of actuals versus approved budgets is tracked regularly, and any issues are flagged.
4. Create staff plan templates, ensuring appropriate rate cards are used, and price projects; calculate client profitability.
5. Partner with Account Management and Delivery teams in overseeing all financial aspects related to a client's portfolio.
6. Collaborate with Sales, Client, Delivery, and Legal teams in new business efforts, including pricing proposals, responding to RFPs, and developing budgets to maintain healthy margins.
7. Review statements of work and master service agreements with Legal and Finance leadership, analyzing and supporting new pricing models or revenue opportunities.
8. Review monthly, quarterly, and annual revenue versus forecasts, providing commentary on financial goals, client margins, and profitability.
9. Maintain a strong understanding of client business models, contractual arrangements, and growth opportunities.
10. Coordinate with DEPT entities on intercompany transactions, contracts, and rate negotiations.
11. Identify and communicate concerns or improvements within the client portfolio to Finance and Client Leaders.
12. Assess client staffing fees and suggest staffing/margin recommendations with Finance support.
13. Ensure agency performance aligns with contractual obligations.

Billing & Invoicing:

1. Manage client purchase orders and SOW systems.
2. Oversee WIP commentary during month-end close.
3. Ensure timely billing of expenses and collaboration with Accounts Receivable for payments.

Other Responsibilities:

1. Serve as the primary contact for client audits.
2. Develop and deliver regular and ad hoc reports for clients and leadership.
3. Lead process improvement initiatives with minimal oversight.
4. Adhere to reporting deadlines for clients and finance calendars.

You will work in a vibrant environment with talented professionals serving global clients. At DEPT, we value continuous improvement, learning, and inspiring others, aiming to make a positive impact in the world.

Skills and Experience:

• At least 3+ years' experience in FP&A / Client Finance as a Manager, Business Partner, or Analyst.
• Experience in a service-oriented business.
• Excellent communication skills and stakeholder management.
• Degree qualified; preferably a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or extensive IFRS exposure.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholder relationships.
• Proactive, independent, responsible, and project-driven.
• Proficient in Excel and Google Suite; Power BI or Tableau experience is advantageous.
• Experience with financial systems, budgeting, and forecasting is beneficial.
• Willingness to travel nationally and internationally.

We Offer:

• Flexible hybrid working (2 days in-office, depending on location).
• Competitive salary based on experience and policies.
• Pension, private healthcare, mental health support, sick pay.
• Season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme.
• Family-friendly policies, social events, guest speakers, learning opportunities.
• Buddy programme, DEPT Cares Month, global opportunities, and development support.

Who Are We?

We are digital pioneers, innovative and forward-thinking. With a presence in 30+ countries, we combine global scale with a caring, autonomous culture. We invest in your growth and empower you to solve challenging client problems worldwide.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:

We strive for an inclusive workplace, valuing diversity and providing equal opportunities. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and support reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. Learn more about our DEI efforts on our website.