# Finance Manager

**Company:** [Universal Quantum](http://jobs.workable.com/companies/t1753yovHsK1nq4p45dkLR.md)
**Location:** Haywards Heath, United Kingdom
**Workplace:** hybrid
**Employment type:** Full-time
**Department:** Operations

[Apply for this job](http://jobs.workable.com/view/7bb743e9-313b-440c-92be-031abad46690)

## Description

**About Universal Quantum** 

At Universal Quantum, we are building the next generation of quantum computers — machines capable of solving problems once thought impossible. Our technology has the potential to transform industries from healthcare to aerospace, materials science, and beyond. As we scale from breakthrough R&D to global delivery, resilient execution becomes as critical as technical innovation. 

**What You’ll Accomplish** 

-   Lead and manage the day‑to‑day finance operations including accounts payable, accounts receivable, invoicing, bank reconciliations, and month‑end routines. 

-   Manage supplier processes from onboarding to payments. 

-   Maintain accurate financial records aligned with UK accounting standards and internal controls. 

-   Take ownership of preparing and submitting VAT returns, ensuring compliance with HMRC requirements. 

-   Support month‑end and year‑end close processes, including journals, accruals, prepayments, and balance sheet reconciliations. 

-   Assist with internal and external audits by ensuring documentation and processes are complete and audit‑ready 

-   Monitor spend, highlight variances, and work closely with budget owners to ensure financial discipline. 

-   Identify inefficiencies in financial processes and implement streamlined, scalable solutions. 

-   Contribute to automation initiatives across invoicing, supplier management, and reconciliations. 

-   Strengthen internal controls and introduce best‑practice financial processes as the business grows.

## Requirements

**The 3 Most Critical Attributes We’ll Use to Compare Candidates** 

1.   **Accuracy & Attention to Detail:** You’ll be the guardian of financial data integrity—small errors can have big impacts, and precision is essential. 
2.  **Proactive Ownership Mindset:** You take initiative, anticipate needs, and close loops without being asked. You thrive in environments where you can build and improve. 
3.  **Strong Communication & Stakeholder Confidence:** You can explain financial matters clearly to non‑finance teams, manage suppliers professionally, and build trust across the organisation. 

**Must-have Skills** 

-   Part‑qualified ACCA, CIMA, or ACA, with ambition to complete qualifications. 

-   Solid understanding of UK accounting principles and VAT rules. 

-   Strong hands‑on experience with invoicing cycles, AP/AR processes, reconciliations, and month‑end tasks. 

-   Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, NetSuite) and strong Excel/Google Sheets skills. 

-   Experience managing supplier onboarding, purchase orders, payment runs and resolving queries. 

-   Ability to maintain accurate ledgers and ensure robust, auditable financial processes. 

-   Comfortable working in organisations with multi‑entity or international considerations. 

-   Excellent organisational and time‑management skills. 

-   Ability to work independently with accountability for outcomes. 

-   A mindset geared toward continuous improvement and financial process optimisation 

**Nice-to-have Skills** 

-   Advanced Excel skills, including complex formulas and data modelling. 

-   Experience supporting ERP implementation or systems migration, particularly in scaling multi‑entity environments. 

-   German language skills, useful for supplier communication and coordination with Germany based accountants.