Finance Manager

Job Description

KEY INFORMATION
Job Title: Finance Manager
Sector: Finance
Position Type: Full Time
Duration/Level of Effort: Long Term
Position Location: London, UK


SUMMARY OF THE POSITION 
This position includes team management, corporate and project accounting responsibilities.  This individual will focus on the following work objectives:

1. Completing corporate accounting tasks for Cowater UK and related entities delivering FCDO projects. This includes oversight of the external audit, preparation of the financial statements, FCDO donor reporting, payment and payroll approvals and reviews of FCDO invoicing.
2. Manage one or more Project Financial Officers on FCDO projects, and directly deliver PFO responsibilities for selected projects.
3. Provide leadership and build capacity across the team on effective use of finance systems and tools.

This is a senior position within the finance team and part of the finance leadership group.


POSITION DESCRIPTION
Detailed Description of Job Duties:

Corporate Finance

• Management of financial operations as it pertains to Cowater UK..
• Responsible for monthly closing of projects and corporate accounts.
• Responsible for managing the external audit of Cowater UK..
• Assist in troubleshooting ERP issues.
• Assist the Head of Finance in the review and consolidation of the company’s annual plan/budget and in monitoring variances.
• Carry out intercompany reconciliations on a monthly basis.
• Ensure all payments are compliant with donor regulations and laws.
• Project financial officer for at least one FCDO project depending on size and complexity.

 Financial Statements and Reporting

• Monthly financial statements for Cowater UK within 30 days of month-end.
• Monthly Project Financial Reporting for Management Committee (shared responsibilities).
• Quarterly consolidated financial statement within 45 days of quarter-end (shared responsibilities).
• Audited Cowater UK annual financial statements within 90 days of year-end.
• Ad hoc financial reporting as required.
• Oversee quarterly reporting with donors (FCDO).

Accounting Oversight and Internal Controls

• Ensure the integrity of the accounting records in accordance with GAAP.
• Ensure that all accounting functions are performed accurately in a timely manner. This includes, but is not limited to, revenue recognition, project costing, invoicing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, timesheet allocation and posting, and foreign exchange management.
• Implement suitable internal controls and separation of duties.
• Ensure accuracy and consistency of financial data across all systems. This includes regular audits, data validation, and implementing best practices for data management.
• Responsible for creating detailed financial reports, analysing large datasets, and supporting decision-making processes.

Other

• Make internal financial presentations of pertinent financial analyses.
• Provide training to peers through brown-bag lunches or knowledge sharing events.
• Liaise closely with staff at the Ottawa, Montreal, London and Brussels branch offices on project accounting, budgeting, and reporting issues.
• Other duties as required.

Experience and Skills:

• Educational Background:ACCA/ICAEW or equivalent.
• Experience:A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in finance or accounting, with at least 3 years in a managerial role. Experience in corporate finance, project accounting, donor funded projects and external audit management is essential.
• Technical Skills:Proficiency in financial software and ERP systems. Advanced Excel skills, including complex formulas, pivot tables, data analysis, and financial modelling.
• Analytical Skills:Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to analyze complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
• Communication Skills:Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to present financial information clearly and concisely to various stakeholders.
• Leadership Skills:Proven leadership and team management skills. Ability to mentor and develop team members, and manage performance effectively.
• Attention to Detail:High level of accuracy and attention to detail in financial reporting and data management.
• Organizational Skills:Strong organizational and time management skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Interpersonal Skills:Ability to work collaboratively with other departments and build strong working relationships.

Employment Conditions:

• This position is full-time and permanent. The candidate must have the right to work in the UK.
• Willingness to travel as required.

APPLICATION PROCESS
Candidates are encouraged to apply by 31 August 2025.

For your application to be considered, please upload your documents as followed: Candidate Last Name, First Name, date, Title of the Position.

Cowater International is an equal opportunity employer, basing employment on merit and qualifications as they relate to professional experience and position expectations. Cowater does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender identity, disability, age, or any other basis protected by law.
We thank all applicants, however only those shortlisted will be contacted.

About the Organization

ABOUT US
Founded in 1985, Cowater International is a leading global development consulting company. Headquartered in Ottawa and with corporate hubs in Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Helsinki, London, Madrid, Manila, Nairobi, Singapore and Stockholm, Cowater International has successfully delivered a portfolio of over 2500 projects and assignments in more than 95 countries. We work with governments, private sector actors and communities implementing projects that support socio-economic development, institutional strengthening, environmental improvements and advance equal opportunities for all. We are a diverse and experienced team committed to building a better tomorrow for the people we serve. Our adaptive approach to management has led to our yearly award-winning work and recognition as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies since 2017.

We thank you for your interest in building a better tomorrow.