Job Description

Finance Manager

Finance Team

JOB PROFILE

What?

To take our clients on a journey, using our expertise in Research &Development Tax and related services, to help accelerate innovation.

There's breadth & variety of work - every day is different and interesting because our clients are from such diverse industries. We strive to empower individuals to shape their own paths, unlock their potential, and achieve harmonious work-life integration.

Why?

At RDA we help develop a better economy by enhancing our clients' innovation using our unique advisory approach. The RDA approach was born out of our founder's dyslexia, inspiring us to think and act differently.

We're a thought-leader in our market and we build trusted relationships. We strive to improve the working lives of all those we encounter on our journey: our people, our clients, and the customers of RDA clients whose lives are enriched through even greater innovation.

How? (RDA Values)

Knowledge

We have in-depth knowledge and expertise in our field. We know how this translates for each client, and how to position for success with HMRC and other Stakeholders.

Excellence

We deliver a professional process, done in the right way. We hold ourselves to high standards. We put our clients first, communicate well, read the room, and endeavour to always be prepared.

Accountability

We take responsibility for our actions. We own up to our mistakes.

Teamwork

We recognise the need for the whole team to collaborate well internally and with clients, building trust.

About the Role

We're looking for a proactive and commercially minded

Finance Manager

to join our dynamic and purpose-driven team in Chelmsford. This is a hands-on role, responsible for the day-to-day financial operations of the business, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and clarity in our reporting.

You'll work closely with the leadership team, providing insight and analysis to support strategic decisions, while continuously improving our financial systems and processes.

This is a

full-time, office-based role

, working

37.5 hours per week

between

8:30am and 5:30pm

, Monday to Friday. Our office is centrally located with

on-site parking available

.

About you

You're a self-starter with excellent analytical skills, a strong attention to detail, and a commercial mindset. You thrive in a collaborative environment and enjoy applying structure to complexity - particularly when it helps enable innovation.

You'll Bring

Proven experience in a Finance Manager or similar role

Strong knowledge of financial reporting, management accounting, and cash flow management

Excellent proficiency in Xero (or similar accounting software)

Advanced Excel skills and confidence interpreting financial data

Strong communication skills with a clear, professional style

Excellent time management and organisational abilities

Essential/Highly Desirable:

- AAT Level 4 (or equivalent)

- GCSEs in Maths and English (Grade C/4 or above)

Desirable:

- Part-qualified or qualified CIMA, ACCA, or ACA

- Experience in a consultancy or service-based business

- Knowledge of R&D Tax or innovation funding (not essential - full training provided)

You will...

Manage the finance function, including accounts payable, receivable, credit control, and general ledger Produce accurate and timely

monthly management accounts

, including profit & loss, balance sheet, and cash flow forecasts Provide financial insight to support budgeting, forecasting, and business planning Oversee VAT submissions, ensure tax compliance, and liaise with external accountants as needed Manage payroll processes and staff expense reporting Maintain and improve financial systems, controls, and reporting tools (e.g., Xero) Drive process improvements to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.

Join Us

At RDA, we believe in unlocking potential - in businesses, people, and ideas. If you're ready to bring structure, insight, and energy to a role that makes a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 45,000.00-55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension On-site parking
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: RDA Finance Manager