Estate Operations & Finance Manager - Cobalt Recruitment

Cobalt is recruiting an Operational Finance Manager to join a major property organisation responsible for a large and complex estate.

This is a broad role sitting across operational finance, service charge management and performance reporting. The Operational Finance Manager will work closely with senior management and teams across finance, operations and property management, providing financial insight while helping to improve processes and controls.

The position offers exposure across a substantial managed property portfolio, alongside opportunities for professional development and a comprehensive benefits package. The working pattern is four days in the office and one day working from home, with standard hours of 9am-5.30pm, Monday to Friday.

The organisation

You will join an established property organisation with a focus on high-quality service, collaboration and continuous improvement.

The organisation invests in employee development through training, mentoring, cross-department experience and support towards relevant professional accreditations. Employees also have access to a benefits package that includes pension and insurance arrangements, health benefits, subsidised gym membership, retail discounts and family leave.

There is a stated commitment to inclusion, flexible working, employee wellbeing and ESG principles across the organisation.

The role and responsibilities

As Operational Finance Manager, you will support the financial and operational management of a diverse managed property portfolio, working closely with senior management and operational stakeholders.

Key responsibilities include:

* Coordinating service charge budgets, reconciliations and forecasts across managed assets.

* Monitoring expenditure and providing analysis and commentary on financial performance and variances.

* Managing cost allocations across service charge budgets, including operational costs, salaries and shared services.

* Reviewing monthly accounts and general ledger information and working with operational teams to resolve discrepancies.

* Producing financial and management reporting for senior stakeholders.

* Supporting operational reporting across areas including utilities, waste and tenant services.

* Coordinating tenant utility billing and supporting the resolution of financial queries.

* Maintaining appropriate financial controls, records and audit trails and supporting internal and external audits.

* Identifying opportunities to improve financial processes, controls and reporting.

* Supporting commercial and operational matters, including tenders, contracts and agreements.

* Managing and developing assigned team members, providing direction, feedback and support.

The Operational Finance Manager will collaborate with colleagues across finance, operations, building management, legal and other functions, making this an opportunity to gain broad exposure across the organisation.

The skills needed

We are looking for someone who combines financial knowledge with an understanding of operational or property-related environments.

You should bring:

* Strong working knowledge of budgeting, financial governance and operational reporting.

* Working knowledge of service charge management, operational finance, utilities, property management or a comparable commercial environment.

* Strong numerical and analytical skills, with the ability to explain financial information clearly.

* Advanced working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

* Good organisational and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage competing workstreams.

* Effective stakeholder management and communication skills across different levels of an organisation.

* The ability to manage and develop colleagues while maintaining high standards of delivery.

* Good attention to detail and an understanding of financial controls, governance and compliance.

Experience within property or facilities management would be beneficial. A relevant professional qualification, or progress towards ACCA, CIMA, RICS or an equivalent qualification, would also be advantageous rather than essential.

This Operational Finance Manager opportunity offers a salary of £60,000-£65,000, subject to experience, alongside hybrid working and a comprehensive employee benefits package.

Early applications are encouraged, as interviews may take place while the role remains advertised.

Due to the volume of applications received, if you don't hear back from us, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

If you require any adjustments or additional support during the recruitment process for any reason whatsoever, please let your Cobalt consultant know.