Finance Manager - Commercial

Finance Manager - Commercial About us At Exchange for Change, we are building something the UK has never had before. Working across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, we are designing and delivering a Deposit Return Scheme from the ground up, creating a system that helps reduce litter and waste by encouraging people to return their empty drinks bottles and cans for recycling. We are industry led, and driven by purpose. A national movement with a clear mission. No bottle unreturned. No can left behind . This is not just another job. This is a rare opportunity to do meaningful work, shape a landmark national programme, and help deliver lasting positive impact for people, businesses and the planet alike. Your role The Finance Manager – Commercial plays a key role in supporting strategic decision-making and driving financial performance across the organisation. This role is responsible for providing high-quality financial analysis, commercial insight, and business partnering to operational and commercial teams. The post-holder will ensure robust financial control while identifying opportunities to enhance organisation efficiency whilst ensuring the delivery of organisational objectives. Key Responsibilities & Priorities Commercial Finance & Business Partnering Act as a trusted finance partner to senior stakeholders across commercial and operational teams. Provide insightful financial analysis to support analysis on return handling fees, producer fees, deposit levels and other core analysis of the operational performance of the Deposit Return Scheme. Challenge and influence business decisions to maximise commercial outcomes. Translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for non-finance stakeholders. Financial Planning & Analysis Support the budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning processes for commercial areas of the business. Analyse variances against budget/forecast and provide clear commentary and recommendations. Develop and maintain financial models to support strategic initiatives and business cases. Monitor key financial and operational KPIs to ensure performance targets are met. Reporting & Controls Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting in accordance with company policies and accounting standards. Maintain strong financial controls and governance across commercial activities. Support month-end and year-end close processes where required. Collaborate with Financial Control teams to ensure integrity of financial data. Stakeholder Management Build strong relationships with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Operations, IT, People and Procurement. Present financial performance and insights to senior leadership. Influence and support decision-making at a strategic level. Leadership & Continuous Improvement Mentor and support junior finance team members where applicable. Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency and reporting quality. Contribute to finance transformation initiatives and system enhancements. About you Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent). Significant experience in a commercial finance or business partnering role within a large organisation. Strong financial modelling and analytical skills. Proven ability to influence and challenge senior stakeholders. Excellent communication and presentation skills. Strong understanding of financial planning, forecasting, and performance analysis. Commercial acumen Strategic thinking Influencing and negotiation Problem-solving and analytical thinking Communication and storytelling with data Collaboration and stakeholder engagement The opportunity Work that makes a difference - and a place where you can too. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help establish a scheme of national importance, working with purpose-driven colleagues and partners to deliver visible, real-world impact. You’ll contribute directly to meaningful environmental and social change and in return, we support and reward our team through a range of benefits and initiatives, including: • Competitive base salary • Bonus scheme • 34 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays, additional holidays for length of service • Flexibility with holidays. You may work on a local public holiday and take an alternative day off, giving you the freedom to celebrate the days that matter most to you. • 5% employer pension contribution • Life Insurance: Cover of 4 times base salary • Private Medical Insurance: Includes GP access and an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for wellbeing support • Income protection • Family Leave: Maternity, adoption, parental, and paternity leave policies will be developed to be progressive and inclusive. • Hybrid Working: 60% office or field-based and 40% home-based, with some flexibility according to business and personal needs. Department Finance Locations Milton Keynes Remote status Hybrid About Exchange for Change We’re building one of the UK’s most ambitious environmental programmes. Exchange for Change is delivering the Deposit Return Scheme across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, helping to reduce litter, increase recycling and support a circular economy. Every bottle and can returned is a step towards a cleaner future. We’re a team of passionate people who care about making a difference. We work collaboratively, value new ideas and support each other to do great work. If you’re looking for a role where you can grow your career while helping to create lasting environmental impact, you’ll fit right in.