Modern roles: Finance Transformation Manager

aat comment

We take a look at some of the emerging roles you could undertake in the modern accounting industry, so you can find the perfect fit for your career 

Could Finance Transformation Manager be your next career move?

What a finance transformation manager does 

“The purpose of the finance transformation manager is to keep up the pace with evolving technologies and industry trends by aligning the finance vision with company strategy, and implementing sustainable change into the finance department, thereby transforming the business,” says Kathryn Heeler, consultant at Sellick Partnership. “They will work closely with finance systems and internal control teams.” 

Kathryn explains that companies may employ finance managers to specialise in transformation projects – driving change and taking ownership of implementing large-scale finance transformation. 

Typical responsibilities of a finance transformation manager 

  • Identifying improvements to increase accuracy and efficiency in the month-end process. 
  • Collaborating with the wider finance team and continuously monitoring internal processes – identifying industry trends and value creation opportunities to maximise the potential of the department and build a “finance team of the future”. 
  • Automating and innovating across the finance spectrum. 
  •  Defining the strategy and being accountable for implementation of the finance change and transformation strategy. 
  •  Working closely with the finance systems and internal control teams to ensure the design and effectiveness of systems, processes and controls provides a robust environment. 

Earning potential 

Kathryn says salaries can range from £70,000 to £90,000 in the south and between £50,000 and £60,000 in northern cities. 

Skills required for the role 

A finance transformation manager should have hands-on knowledge of finance processes and a great idea of what “excellent” looks like, Kathryn says. “They should have strong financial modelling skills, as well as business and data analysis skills. They will also need experience in successfully implementing high-profile strategic projects, managing multiple projects/deadlines and multitasking with ease.” The ability to work autonomously is also important, as are strong communication skills (both written and verbal) and an ability to communicate/influence/negotiate easily and effectively across stakeholders from team members to executive management.” 

Kathryn adds that a finance transformation manager needs to concisely and logically communicate insights and suggestions, whether verbally (including in meetings), in writing or through executive-level, professional presentations.” 

Where you can find a finance transformation manager role 

Mainly in large companies, either in the public sector or businesses who provide services into the public sector.   

Is this role the right fit for you? 

  • Salary range of £50,000-£90,000 
  • Align the finance vision with company strategy 
  • Work in a large organisation in the public sector 
  • Strong financial modelling, business and data analysis skills required 

Further reading:

Hannah Dolan is AAT Comment’s Content Editor.

Related articles