At Gist, we're proud to be part of the M&S Group, the logistics engine behind M&S Food.
From our distribution centres to our transport operations and support functions, we connect people, technology and expertise to ensure the right products reach the right stores at the right time.
As we continue to invest in our people, technology and network, there's never been a more exciting time to join Gist and help shape the future of food logistics.
The Opportunity
Our finance team based in Barnsley have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Accountancy & Finance Manager where you will lead and oversee a complex, high-volume finance operation, ensuring robust financial controls, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency and effective stakeholder management.
What you'll be doing
Reporting into the CFO, you will empower and lead a team of 3 direct reports and circa 20 indirect reports, from Accounts Payable & Receivable, Credit Control, Treasury and Tax, where you will implement an environment of engagement, development, and high performance. You will be responsible for:
- Accounts payable and receivable processes, ensuring due diligence, data management, invoice processing and payments for large-scale suppliers and operational networks.
- Take responsibility for credit control ensuring a proactive approach to debt management, mandating credit risk management and mitigation.
- Manage treasury and fixed asset processes including multi-currency bank accounts, cash books and inter-company accounts.
- Oversee the fixed asset register, capitalisation, disposal, capital work in progress and annual asset verification.
- Be practiced in statutory compliance including VAT, PAYE settlement agreement, and corporation tax where you will work closely with internal tax teams and Irish revenue when required.
- Leverage technology to enhance accuracy and efficiency within the team.
- Act as a key interface for internal and external stakeholders.
- Ensure processes are robust, efficient and compliant, with effective preventative and detective controls, accurate financial records and appropriate audit trails.
This is a broad leadership role combining financial operations, controls, compliance, treasury, credit management, stakeholder engagement and team development, with a strong focus on governance, operational excellence and continuous improvement.
What we're looking for
To be successful in your application you will be fully qualified (CIMA/ACA/ACCA) and have significant statutory accounting and reporting, financial controls and managerial experience, with proven background of leading, empowering and developing financial accountancy team. You will have experience of using a variety of financial systems with a passion for integrating and automating processes.
It goes without saying that you will be a natural communicator, problem solver and influencer able to build excellent working relationships with both internal and external stakeholder groups. You will possess excellent statistical reporting and analysis skills with a strategic focus on improving financial services, processes and procedures within a fast-paced environment.
It would be desirable, however not essential if you have proven experience of working in a supply chain and logistics environment.
Role details:
Salary: Up to £80,000 per annum + car allowance
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Location: Gist Ltd, c/o Biz Hub, Longfields Court, Wharncliffe Business Park, Barnsley, S71 3GN
What’s in it for you?
As well as a competitive salary, you'll benefit from:
- 20% M&S discount on most things from furniture, fashion and food
- 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (rising with length of service)
- Discounted rates on healthcare cash plan
- Attractive annual bonus scheme, based on M&S performance and personal objectives
- Auto Enrolment Pension or competitive Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and life assurance (up to 4 times salary)
- Amazing perks and discounts via our App to major restaurants and retailers
- Access to a wide range of wellbeing support – including our Employee Assistance Programme
- A first-class welcome with a tailored induction and a wide range of training schemes to help with your learning and development
- Cycle to work scheme
Why Gist?
When you join Gist, you're joining a business that plays a critical role within the M&S Group.
You'll have the opportunity to influence meaningful change, work alongside experienced leaders and contribute to one of the UK's leading food supply chains.
Our culture is built around our values of being Progressive, Accountable, Collaborative and Ethical, creating an environment where people are trusted, supported and encouraged to grow.
Whether you're leading a site operation, delivering transformation or shaping future strategy, your work will make a real difference.
Our commitment to inclusion
At Gist, we believe our differences make us stronger.
We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please let us know. We'll work with you to ensure you have the support you need.
