Here at Wickes we are looking to recruit a Finance Business Partner - Operations to join our team on an interim basis until March 2023. Following our demerger from Travis Perkins back in April, we have embarked on a Finance systems transformation project and are looking for a pro-active, adaptable and engaging individual to join the Finance team and provide the necessary support during this time. 

The main purpose of this role will be to business partner the Operations team and also provide back-fill support to cover the current Operations Finance Managers as they support the implementation of a new finance system.

Key Accountabilities:

• Where required, business Partner to the North and South Divisional Directors (DDs) and Regional Leaders (RLs) - providing financial analysis, support and challenge

• Support the c.230 Stores forecasting and budgeting process and ensure DD/RL signoff

• Support wider business projects that impact on Store Operations Finance / Stores

• Assist with any ad hoc requests, queries or analysis, to help the smooth, efficient working of the Finance function

• Where required, business partner to the Store Operations, Distribution and Property Director providing financial analysis, support and challenge

• Provide support to cover business partners regarding costs / relationships / month end / budgeting / forecasting relating to Wages, Shrinkage, R&M, Variable Costs and relevant Development costs 

• Support the Property Programme where required - develop and deliver financial investment appraisal and post implementation reviews to assure appropriate allocation of investment capital/revenue for the store operational areas of the business (e.g. refit, new store opportunities)

• Support, review and sign off of monthly financial results for Operations and production of the monthly management accounts slides

• Support Operations Finance for all FP&A / FR&C Wickes/Group deliverables

• Driving a cost conscious and lean culture into the Operations function, providing relevant ad-hoc analysis and insight to Operations to drive bottom line profit

What are we looking for:

• Recognised accountancy qualifications (ACA, CIMA,  ACCA or equivalent)

• 3+ years PQE

• Retail / FMCG experience Business partnering at Director level (preferred)

• Ability to challenge , engage and influence internal and external stakeholders

• Building and maintaining relationships with others to include key stakeholders and non-Finance team members

• Strong communication skills

• Experience of working to tight timescales and consistently meeting deadlines

• High attention to detail and data accuracy

• Proficiency in MS Office with good Excel skills

• Well organised, flexible, and able to operate in fast paced environment

• Capable of providing drive and bringing passion to the role

What can we offer you?

You’ll be supported with fantastic learning and development and have the opportunity to grow and develop your career with us 

We’ll also equip you with a benefits package that includes 

• Competitive bonus

• Save-as-you-earn scheme

• Private Medical and Life Assurance

• Contributory pension scheme

• Colleague discount 

• Discount platform including savings and cash back at numerous retailers, savings on gym membership, cycle to work scheme

Our widely recognised wellbeing strategy is something we’re proud of at Wickes. As part of this, we offer a range of health and wellbeing benefits and support, including an Employee Assistance Programme, financial education & loans, and access to parental, menopause and fertility support. 

We have recently re-opened our Support Centre in Watford, where our Finance team are based, along with our other support functions.  We recognise the value of bringing our teams together to collaborate, support each other and build on our amazing culture.  We are also encouraging our teams to work flexibly, with a blend of remote / office working.