Job Description

About the Role

The Finance Manager will be responsible for the overall financial leadership, strategy, planning, and governance for Penman Consulting (PC) companies and Consortia not-for-profit entities, in Belgium, the UK and Netherlands. This is a key leadership role requiring hands-on oversight and management of the day-to-day finance operations while also contributing to strategic decision-making and long-term financial planning. assessments, and compliance strategies across target Penman Consultancy industries.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Develop and execute company-wide financial strategy aligned with business goals and growth objectives. Provide strategic insights and financial analysis to support investment, expansion, and operational initiatives. Support the PC Board in budgeting, forecasting, scenario modelling, and business planning.

Financial Management

Oversee all aspects of financial reporting, management accounts, cash flow, and treasury for PC companies and not-for-profit entities. Manage budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis processes (by company, division, department) Ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance in consolidated reporting across entities.

Regulatory & Compliance

Ensure compliance with all relevant statutory, tax, and regulatory requirements in Belgium, the UK and any other jurisdictions in which Penman Consulting operates. Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies during audits and reporting cycles. Maintain up-to-date financial policies and procedures across the group.

Operational Finance

Manage accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and expense processes. Oversee and optimise financial systems, tools, and integrations (e.g., Accounting and ERP systems). Support procurement and contract financial reviews.

Team & Stakeholder Management

Lead and develop finance staff and external providers (e.g., accountants/bookkeepers). Act as a key liaison between finance and other departments including People Services & HR, operations, and technology. Present regular financial updates to stakeholders and provide input for investor or client reporting where needed.

Qualifications and skills

Essential

Qualified accountant (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with at least 5-10 years of senior finance experience. Proven experience managing finances across multiple entities or a group structure. Strong understanding of UK financial, tax, and regulatory environments. Demonstrated ability to think strategically and act operationally. Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.

Desirable

Experience in consultancy, scientific services, ESG, or SaaS environments. Knowledge of R&D tax credits, grants, or other innovation finance mechanisms. Familiarity with financial technology platforms and automation. Language skills in French, Dutch, or Flemish; though not a pre-requisite, are a distinct advantage, reflecting the group's international operations.

Knowledge of Belgian financial, tax, and regulatory environments is highly beneficial, particularly in support of cross-border compliance and operational alignment.