Finance Manager

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.

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.