Head of Financial Processes Development

We are hiring a Head of Financial Processes Development to implement highly effective Finance processes across the business. This is a permanent opportunity, and you can be based from any of our locations with national and some international travel expected.

Working alongside our Group Information Systems to introduce the new SAP S/4 (cloud-based platform), streamlining and automating processes and integrations in a user-friendly solution. This will include leading a cross functional team of Finance Subject Matter Experts to identify, develop and adopt best in class ways of working to provide highly efficient processes and robust financial controls.

Reporting to the Director of Finance Business Processes, this is a great opportunity to lead and engage with colleagues across Finance and IS, delivering clear direction and messaging to ensure the cross functional team performs at a high level and delivers an optimal outcome, providing clear reporting to the Project Steering Committee.

What you’ll be doing as a Head of Financial Processes Development

• Developing a strategy for the transformation of financial transactional processes and to creating the foundations in which the new SAP S/4 systems can be implemented. This should include Period End reporting and consolidation, Financial Accounting, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll and, Cash & Banking.
• Leading the SAP S/4 project for Finance, in partnership with IS, including resource planning and management, process and technical design, risk management, governance, people engagement and testing.
• Ensuring that Key Controls and Governance remain robust in the transition to, and following the implementation of, the new ways of working.
• Leading and motivate cross functional and cross divisional teams, including the Finance team in France to ensure that the Strategy and solutions will deliver benefits in the future.

What we need from you:

• Deep experience of SAP systems is essential.
• Qualified accountant ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent is essential.
• Previous experience of project management in the field of financial processes change is a definite advantage.
• Deep understanding of the Howdens culture and strong relationships would be beneficial.
• Leadership, Cultural and Organisational Awareness
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Developing a wide-ranging network across different parts of the business to ensure the consequences of implementing new processes are fully understood before change is made.
• The ability to support experienced colleagues to develop and embrace change.
• Able to develop a critical path and a clear project plan, with skilled resources and key milestones clearly earmarked.
• Can identify risks and be able to articulate root causes and adjust the plan accordingly to ensure the project remains on track for delivery.
• Presenting options for decision at the Steering Committee, with supporting information to enable relevant decisions to be made.

What we can offer you:

• Grade 3 role
• Competitive salary and bonus scheme
• Award winning pension scheme (company contribution of up to 12%)
• Private medical health insurance
• Annual car allowance
• Life assurance
• Staff discount
• Exceptional Reward and Recognition events

How to apply: 

Good luck with your application.  Before you apply, please speak to your manager, so that they are aware of your interest in this role.  You will also need to attach a CV as part of your application.  Please take note that this advert is a summary of the main duties and responsibilities and may be subject to change.  If you have any questions or need further support or information, please contact Holly Gibbins in the Recruitment Team.

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.