Senior Finance Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s global economy, the importance of Senior Finance Managers cannot be overstated.

As the financial landscape continues to evolve, the demand for savvy individuals who can manage, analyze, and direct financial operations grows stronger.

But let’s unpack this: What’s truly expected from a Senior Finance Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of finance management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Senior Finance Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Senior Finance Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Senior Finance Managers oversee the financial operations of a business, leading financial planning, budget management and cost-benefit analysis.

They also supervise the finance team and coordinate with other departments to ensure overall financial effectiveness.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Develop and implement financial strategies and policies to ensure the company’s financial growth and stability
• Oversee the preparation of all financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and reports for government regulatory agencies
• Manage the preparation of the company’s budget and financial forecasts, projecting revenue and analyzing variances
• Supervise the finance team and provide guidance on their day-to-day duties
• Monitor cash flow and investment to ensure the company’s financial security
• Collaborate with senior management to set financial goals and budgets that align with the company’s strategic plans
• Review and assess the potential financial implications of current and future investments or acquisitions
• Analyze financial data and provide insights to senior management, making recommendations for improvement
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local financial legal requirements
• Develop and maintain systems for internal control to prevent inaccuracies in financial statements

 

Senior Finance Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a seasoned Senior Finance Manager to lead our financial department.

The responsibilities include creating forecasting models, assessing risk in investments and ensuring all accounting activities comply with regulations.

The Senior Finance Manager will be well-versed in all aspects of financial management ranging from simple accounting to broad investment and banking operations.

They should be comfortable with analyzing and understanding complex financial data, market trends, and making optimal decisions in the interests of the company.

 

Responsibilities

• Drive the financial planning of the company by analyzing its performance and risks
• Retain constant awareness of the company’s financial position and act to prevent problems
• Set up and oversee the company’s finance IT system
• Set targets for and supervise all accounting and finance personnel (management accountants, internal auditors etc.)
• Oversee all audit and internal control processes
• Prepare timely and detailed reports on financial performance on a quarterly and annual basis
• Conduct analysis to make forecasts and report to upper executives

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Financial Manager
• Extensive understanding of financial trends both within the company and general market patterns
• Strong understanding of financial law and compliance standards
• Proficient user of finance software
• Strong interpersonal, communication and presentation skills
• BSc/BA in Accounting, Finance or relevant field; MSc/MBA is a plus
• Professional certification such as CFA/CPA or similar will be considered a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Senior Finance Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or financial reviews.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $100,000 minimum to $180,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Senior Finance Manager Do?

Senior Finance Managers typically work for corporations across various industries, financial institutions, or consulting firms.

They can also work as independent financial consultants.

They are responsible for overseeing and managing the financial activities and policies of an organization.

This includes budgeting, forecasting, auditing, and risk management.

Senior Finance Managers work closely with other members of the finance team to ensure the accuracy of financial data, analyze financial trends, and provide strategic recommendations.

They also collaborate with managers from other departments to help them plan and manage their own budgets.

Their job is to ensure that all financial transactions, policies, and procedures comply with regulations and laws.

They also review and analyze financial reports to identify ways to increase profits, make improvements, or take corrective actions.

Senior Finance Managers are often tasked with making significant business decisions, guided by their financial analysis.

This can include determining investment strategies, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and planning for future financial performance.

They play a key role in the company’s financial future, providing insights and reports to the board of directors, stakeholders, or other top management members.

They may also be involved in negotiating major contracts, planning mergers and acquisitions, or preparing financial statements for external publication.

 

Senior Finance Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Senior Finance Manager should possess a blend of technical skills, managerial acumen, and financial industry knowledge, including:

• Strong understanding of financial and accounting principles, and the ability to apply this knowledge to real-world situations in the company.
• Effective leadership and people management skills, with the capacity to lead and motivate a team of finance professionals towards achieving company goals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to clearly explain financial concepts to colleagues and stakeholders without a finance background, as well as collaborate effectively with other departments.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills to interpret complex financial data, forecast trends, identify potential risks and opportunities, and make informed financial decisions.
• Proficiency in using financial software and tools for budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Sound knowledge of financial legislation and regulatory standards, ensuring the company’s financial operations are compliant with laws and regulations.
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines and company objectives.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and rectify any issues that could impact the financial health of the company.

 

Senior Finance Manager Experience Requirements

Candidates applying for a Senior Finance Manager role are typically expected to have at least 7 to 10 years of experience in the field of finance.

This experience should be comprehensive, spanning roles such as Financial Analyst, Finance Manager, or similar positions within the finance department.

Entry-level candidates can gain this experience through roles like Finance Analyst or Associate, where they handle tasks such as budgeting, financial reporting, forecasting, and strategic planning.

Mid-level candidates with about 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of financial analysis, risk management, and regulatory compliance.

They may have worked as Finance Managers or Financial Controllers, leading projects or small teams, and gaining exposure to key decision-making processes.

Candidates with more than 7 years of experience should have a proven track record in managing complex financial operations, driving financial planning, managing budgets, and delivering business objectives.

In addition to these, Senior Finance Managers are often expected to have leadership experience, as they will be responsible for managing a team.

Therefore, experience in leading finance teams, mentoring staff, and influencing senior stakeholders can be beneficial.

Moreover, those eyeing a Senior Finance Manager position should be well-versed in the use of financial software, and holding an MBA or a relevant finance qualification, such as a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification, would certainly be advantageous.

 

Senior Finance Manager Education and Training Requirements

Senior Finance Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field.

They should possess deep knowledge in financial planning, forecasting, budgeting, and financial reporting.

Several years of experience in financial management are usually required, with a minimum of five years being the standard in most organizations.

Many employers prefer candidates with a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a relevant field, such as finance or accounting.

Certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is often highly desired, if not required.

These certifications demonstrate a high level of competence and commitment to the profession.

Senior Finance Managers also need strong analytical, strategic planning, and leadership skills.

They must be well-versed in financial software and be able to communicate complex financial information clearly.

Continued professional development through workshops, seminars, and courses is encouraged to keep up with the latest industry trends and regulations.

 

Senior Finance Manager Salary Expectations

A Senior Finance Manager earns an average salary of $129,890 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation can vary significantly based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, the size and industry of the employing company, and the cost of living in the geographical location.

 

Senior Finance Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Senior Finance Manager need?

Senior Finance Managers should have strong analytical skills to evaluate financial operations, trends, costs and revenues.

They should have excellent leadership skills to guide their team, interpersonal skills to liaise with other departments, and strong communication skills to present financial information effectively.

They must also possess strategic planning skills and in-depth knowledge of financial laws and regulations.

 

Do Senior Finance Managers need a degree?

Yes, Senior Finance Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in fields such as finance, economics, accounting or business administration.

Many companies prefer candidates with an MBA or a master’s degree in finance or a related field.

Professional certifications, such as a CPA, can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Senior Finance Manager’s resume?

In a Senior Finance Manager’s resume, look for a solid educational background in a relevant field, and a significant amount of experience in financial management roles.

Check for a track record of successful financial strategic planning, budget management, and financial reporting.

Also, look for experience with financial software and in-depth knowledge of financial regulations.

 

What qualities make a good Senior Finance Manager?

A good Senior Finance Manager is detail-oriented, has excellent problem-solving abilities, and is capable of making informed decisions under pressure.

They must be able to manage a team effectively and communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial staff.

A good Senior Finance Manager will also have the foresight to anticipate and mitigate potential financial risks.

 

Is it difficult to hire Senior Finance Managers?

Hiring Senior Finance Managers can be challenging due to the high level of expertise and experience required for the role.

Companies often compete for the best talent, offering competitive salaries, benefits, and professional growth opportunities.

Thus, it’s critical to have an attractive job offer and a rigorous selection process to secure the right candidate.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the true essence of being a Senior Finance Manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about crunching numbers.

It’s about shaping the financial future, one strategic decision at a time.

With our reliable Senior Finance Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to advance.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every financial decision contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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