Job Description

Job Title

Senior Finance Manager

Role Type

6 month fixed term contract/Full Time

Job Location

Billingshurst, West Sussex

The Company

From day one, Thakeham has been driven by a clear vision: to transform the way people think about new-built developments.

Over 20 years later, that ethos is still very much alive, reflected in our numerous awards and reputation in the sector. Today, Thakeham employs close to 250 people and has a forecasted revenue of 199 million in 2024/25.

An infrastructure-led community creator and strategic land promoter, Thakeham is committed to partnerships, innovation and creating amazing places to live and work. We are industry-leading in sustainability and biodiversity. We were one of the first to introduce Zero Bills homes in partnership with Octopus Energy.

We pride ourselves on our 'Infrastructure first' approach, ensuring communities release the benefits of new development at the outset, rather than later in the process. We deliver social, affordable and retirement housing for a wide range of housing associations and local authorities.

People are Thakeham's most important asset, and this is reflected in the way we operate. We are proud to be listed in the Top 100 Best Large Companies to Work For 2024.

Our people enjoy excellent rewards and working conditions in an exciting and growing business. We offer exciting career opportunities, and are keen to develop, guide and support our employees, regardless of what stage they are in their careers.

We value diversity and encourage people to bring their full authentic selves to work. A Gold Armed Forces Covenant signatory and supporter of armed force's charity Building Heroes, Thakeham operates a Talent for Development outreach campaign for military veterans and college leavers.

Work and fun should not be mutually exclusive and Thakeham offers a range of social events such as quiz nights, BBQs and all staff parties. We run informal lunch and learns and take on charity challenges such as the Housebuilder Challenge. We encourage people to volunteer in their communities, offering two paid days per year to do so. Where roles allow, our summer hours policy in June, July and August allows people to enjoy longer weekends with their loved ones. A flexible approach to working is available all year round.

At Thakeham we build communities, together.

The Department

The finance department provides support to all areas of the business, ensuring we deliver accurate, timely and relevant financial information. The focus of the department is to ensure all of the groups financial reporting and day to day finance needs are met, these include areas such as budgetary control, business planning, cashflow management, management accounts, statutory accounts, purchase ledger, subcontract ledger, sales ledger, project appraisal and joint venture accounting.?

We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Senior Finance Manager to lead financial planning, forecasting, and strategic analysis for our land portfolio area of the business.

The Job Role

The successful candidate will;

Lead financial planning and forecasting activities across the strategic land portfolio, ensuring alignment with long-term business objectives

Partner with the land and planning teams to evaluate land acquisition opportunities, financial viability, and development scenarios

Develop and maintain robust financial models to support investment appraisal, land promotion strategies, and exit timing

Oversee budgeting, cash flow forecasting, and reporting at both project and group levels

Support the preparation of business cases and board-level reporting for land acquisitions and disposals

Ensure compliance with financial controls, internal policies, and external reporting requirements

Liaise with external stakeholders including auditors, funders, planning consultants, and JV partners

Lead and mentor a small finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and commercial focus

This list is not exhaustive. Tasks will be allocated to reflect increasing levels of development and experience.

The Required Skills

Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

Minimum 5 years of post-qualification experience, preferably in real estate, land promotion, development, or related sectors

Strong financial modelling skills and experience in investment appraisal

Commercial acumen with the ability to interpret planning risks, development timelines, and exit strategies

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

Experience with land valuation, option/promotion agreements, and strategic land processes (desirable)

The Benefits

- Competitive salary

- Salary sacrifice car scheme

- Annual holiday allowance 26 days increasing to 27 after 3yrs service and 28 after 5yrs service (plus bank holidays)

- Life assurance

- Private medical insurance

- Health screening

- Pension scheme

- Bonus scheme

- Flexible working hours in a modern office environment / Working from Home Policy

- Excellent development and progression opportunities for the right candidate

- Company Social events

Plus a whole range of other employee benefits that we can tell you all about, our employees are rewarded for their performance, attitude and results.

#happytotalkflexibleworking

Thakeham is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and treating people fairly. We will treat all job applicants and employees equally regardless of age, race, religious belief, colour, ethnic or national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation or disability. We welcome applicants from all sectors of society and we are committed to promoting an inclusive environment for all.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 6 months

Benefits:

Flexitime Free flu jabs Paid volunteer time Sick pay Work from home
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Billingshurst RH14 9GN