Defence Digital Finance Business Partner

Filton
1 week ago
Create job alert

Location

MOD Abbey Wood, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8JH

About the job

Job summary

Defence Digital ensures our Armed Forces remain among the most technologically advanced in the world. We do this by putting innovative and effective technology into the hands of over 200,000 users, from the boardroom to the front line.

We lead on cutting-edge data science, automation, and cybersecurity at scale. Our mission goes beyond the battlefield by leading humanitarian efforts and driving digital innovation that impacts lives across the globe.

Defence Digital forms part of Strategic Command which manages the MOD’s joint capabilities for the Army, RAF, and Royal Navy.

Passionate about using your skills to make a critical difference? Your next career move could be here!

Job description

This is an excellent opportunity for ambitious Finance Professionals to advance their careers in Digital and Cyber delivery programmes, a growing and crucial sector within Defence. The role involves offering comprehensive financial support services to the Delivery Teams at Defence Digital. This position uniquely allows for shaping the future of delivery programmes by overseeing acquisition, financial management, governance, and estimates for the Army's £6 billion programme mandate in collaboration with customers and delivery teams.

Defence Digital Finance Business Partners are tasked with providing Financial Governance, Financial Accounting, Financial Management, Financial Advice, and Financial Information services to Delivery Programmes. They are also responsible for timely and accurate reporting in accordance with the core MOD financial procedures.

Responsibilities

  • Financial Planning and support to the annual review and prioritisation of the Defence Programme.

  • In-year Budget Management, Financial Control and ensure accounts, including Project Accounts are robust and accurately maintained.

  • Support investment decisions by undertaking reviews of Business Cases.

  • Ensure delivery of a robust compliance and governance framework.

  • Effectively manage resources within area of responsibility.

  • Provision of financial analysis and assurance, including Cost Models to support evaluation of industry bids and to provide robust evidence in support of financial approvals.

    Person specification

    Defence Digital Finance in the Business Teams are fully integrated with, and work collaboratively alongside, Programme Management and Commercial colleagues to ensure the effective delivery of the Defence Digital Portfolio. Therefore, you would need to demonstrate strong collaboration and interpersonal skills and are confident in tackling complex and challenging issues with various levels of stakeholders.

    When submitting your CV, please highlight your career history and experience relevant to this role. Additionally, refer to the "Things You Need to Know" section of the advert and provide a personal statement (max. 1250 words) demonstrating the essential criteria listed below:

  • You must have proven expertise in advanced Excel skills.

  • Experience in financial planning, estimation, and cost modelling is required.

  • The ability to analyse a variety of complex information and figures, and to offer clear and well-founded recommendations and decisions.

    Qualifications

    Finance and Accounting Qualifications are required for this position:
    You will be part qualified in a CCAB (or equivalent) qualification. Specifically, to have achieved at least one of the following:
    CIMA – Management level (and be awarded CIMA Adv Dip MA)
    ACCA – Applied Knowledge and Applied Skills Levels
    CIPFA – Professional Diploma
    ACA – Professional Level
    Candidates will be expected to provide documentary evidence of achievement if called forward for interview. Equivalent qualifications will be considered. Please detail in your supporting statement what equivalent qualifications you hold. Please note all qualifications need to be in date.

    Hybrid Working

    Where business needs allow, some roles may be suitable for a combination of office and home-based working. This is a non-contractual arrangement where all employees will be expected to spend a minimum of 60% of their working time in office, subject to capacity. Requirements to attend other locations for official business, or work in another MOD office will also count towards this level of attendance. Applicants can request further information regarding how this may work in their team from the vacancy holder (see advert for contact details). This position is advertised at 37 hours per week. The successful candidate is required to carry out all their duties from a UK location and cannot do so from an overseas location at any time.

    hings you need to know

    Selection process details

    This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours, Experience and Technical skills.

    To apply please complete the CV template provided on the CS Jobs dashboard, ensuring your CV highlights your relevance to the essential criteria.

    All applicants will also need to provide a personal statement (max. 1250 words) and it is vital that this includes evidence of the following essential criteria (which is also listed within the Person Specification). Each one will be scored 1-7 and make up part of your overall score to assess your suitability to be invited to interview.

    Essential Criteria:

  1. You must have proven expertise in advanced Excel skills.

  2. Experience in financial planning, estimation, and cost modelling is required.

  3. The ability to analyse a variety of complex information and figures, and to offer clear and well-founded recommendations and decisions.

    Artificial Intelligence

    We encourage the use of technology to streamline the job application process. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be helpful in generating ideas, improving writing style, and increasing efficiency. However, it is essential that any content submitted as part of a job application is truthful, accurate, and a genuine reflection of the applicant’s qualifications and experiences. Any use of AI should be supplementary to your own knowledge and abilities. Ultimately, the application should demonstrate your unique skills and suitability for the role.

    We'll assess you against these Behaviours and Technical Skills during the interview process:

    Behaviours:

  • Leadership

  • Changing and Improving

  • Making Effective Decisions

  • Working Together

    Technical:

  • FCF3 Financial Planning

  • FCF4 In-Year Financial Management

    If you are selected for an interview, it will be held via Teams. We will try and offer as much flexibility as we can, but it may not be possible to offer alternative dates for interviews or assessments.

    Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.

    Security

    Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check.

    Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is security check

    Nationality requirements

    This job is broadly open to the following groups:

  • UK nationals

  • nationals of the Republic of Ireland

  • nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK

  • nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)

  • nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)

  • individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020

  • Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Defence Digital - Finance Manager

Defence Digital - Project Support Officer

Defence Digital Project Manager

Defence Digital Programme Delivery Manager

Chief Architect - Skynet Ground Systems

Data Strategy Consultant

Get the latest insights and jobs direct. Sign up for our newsletter.

By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Job-Hunting During Economic Uncertainty: Machine Learning Edition

Machine learning (ML) has firmly established itself as a crucial part of modern technology, powering everything from personalised recommendations and fraud detection to advanced robotics and predictive maintenance. Both start-ups and multinational corporations depend on machine learning engineers and data experts to gain a competitive edge via data-driven insights and automation. However, even this high-demand sector can experience a downturn when broader economic forces—such as global recessions, wavering investor confidence, or unforeseen financial events—lead to more selective hiring, stricter budgets, and lengthier recruitment cycles. For ML professionals, the result can be fewer available positions, more rivals applying for each role, or narrower project scopes. Nevertheless, the paradox is that organisations still require skilled ML practitioners to optimise operations, explore new revenue channels, and cope with fast-changing market conditions. This guide aims to help you adjust your job-hunting tactics to these challenges, so you can still secure a fulfilling position despite uncertain economic headwinds. We will cover: How market volatility influences machine learning recruitment and your subsequent steps. Effective strategies to distinguish yourself when the field becomes more discerning. Ways to showcase your technical and interpersonal skills with tangible business impact. Methods for maintaining morale and momentum throughout potentially protracted hiring processes. How www.machinelearningjobs.co.uk can direct you towards the right opportunities in machine learning. By sharpening your professional profile, aligning your abilities with in-demand areas, and engaging with a focused ML community, you can position yourself for success—even in challenging financial conditions.

How to Achieve Work-Life Balance in Machine Learning Jobs: Realistic Strategies and Mental Health Tips

Machine Learning (ML) has become a cornerstone of modern innovation, powering everything from personalised recommendation engines and chatbots to autonomous vehicles and advanced data analytics. With numerous industries integrating ML into their core operations, the demand for skilled professionals—such as ML engineers, research scientists, and data strategists—continues to surge. High salaries, cutting-edge projects, and rapid professional growth attract talent in droves, creating a vibrant yet intensely competitive sector. But the dynamism of this field can cut both ways. Along with fulfilling opportunities comes the pressure of tight deadlines, complex problem-solving, continuous learning curves, and high-stakes project deliverables. It’s a setting where many professionals ask themselves, “Is true work-life balance even possible?” When new algorithms emerge daily and stakeholder expectations soar, the line between healthy dedication and perpetual overwork can become alarmingly thin. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on how to achieve a healthy work-life balance in Machine Learning roles. We’ll discuss the distinctive pressures ML professionals face, realistic approaches to managing workloads, strategies for safeguarding mental health, and how boundary-setting can be the difference between sustained career growth and burnout. Whether you’re just getting started or have been at the forefront of ML for years, these insights will empower you to excel without sacrificing your well-being.

Transitioning from Academia to the Machine Learning Industry: How PhDs and Researchers Can Thrive in Commercial ML Settings

Machine learning (ML) has rapidly evolved from an academic discipline into a cornerstone of commercial innovation. From personalising online content to accelerating drug discovery, machine learning technologies permeate nearly every sector, creating exciting career avenues for talented researchers. If you’re a PhD or academic scientist thinking about leaping into this dynamic field, you’re not alone. Companies are eager to recruit professionals with a strong foundation in algorithms, statistical methods, and domain-specific knowledge to build the intelligent products of tomorrow. This article explores the essential steps academics can take to transition into industry roles in machine learning. We’ll discuss the differences between academic and commercial research, the skill sets most in demand, and how to optimise your CV and interview strategy. You’ll also find tips on networking, developing a commercial mindset, and navigating common challenges as you pivot your career from the halls of academia to the ML-driven tech sector.