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.