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Working at WPP means being part of a global network of more than 100,000 talented people dedicated to doing extraordinary work for our clients. We operate in over 100 countries, with corporate headquarters in New York, London and Singapore.
WPP is a world leader in marketing services, with deep AI, data and technology capabilities, global presence and unrivalled creative talent. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow.
The ET Finance Manager / Finance Business Partner ('FBP') is a key role within the Enterprise Technology ('ET') Finance team, supporting the ongoing transformation within ET and contributing to the overall financial management of the function. This role will involve significant interaction with the ET function and finance teams across WPP's Networks and operating companies. The Manager / FBP will play an instrumental part in supporting efficiency, accuracy, and strategic alignment across ET Finance activities.
Reporting to the ET Senior Finance Manager, this role will support projects, provide in-depth financial analysis, and contribute to process improvements. The candidate will possess a strong accounting and financial modelling background, experience handling large and complex data sets, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and global environment. Transformation Leadership:
Support key ET Finance transformation initiatives, ensuring alignment with overall WPP strategic objectives.
Identify and contribute to opportunities to streamline processes, improve data quality, and enhance financial reporting capabilities.
Support the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness within the ET Finance function.
Financial Management:
Support the successful execution of the ET Finance strategy.
Assist in the development and maintenance of detailed financial plans, track progress, proactively identify/mitigate savings opportunities, potential risks and issues.
Co-ordinate with various stakeholders across the organisation including finance, tax, treasury, technology, procurement and operational teams, to ensure seamless delivery.
Prepare financial performance for senior stakeholders.
Support the overhaul and implementation of ET's budgeting process, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and strategic alignment.
Manage the full cycle of annual budget and forecast preparation, including the critical responsibility for accurate data input, validation, and maintenance within the group consolidation BFC (SAP) system to ensure data integrity and facilitate consolidated financial views. This oversight extends to all financial aspects, covering both central and agency ET spend for the entire Group.
Act as a key contributor and facilitator in cross-functional budget discussions, engaging extensively with global discipline leads to translate strategic initiatives into financial plans, and collaborating closely with agency finance teams to harmonise financial reporting, ensure data consistency, and align with global budgetary frameworks.
Proactively manage financial performance through regular engagement with budget owners and finance partners. This includes continuous tracking of run rates, rigorous monitoring of savings initiatives, and the identification and execution of opportunities for spend consolidation to drive efficiency and cost optimisation.
Construct advanced financial models utilising extensive datasets to support strategic initiatives such as investment analysis, cost efficiency, and intercompany recharges.
Execute comprehensive financial analysis (e.g., Develop and maintain critical financial models for budgeting, forecasting, and investment appraisal.
Prepare compelling financial reports for senior leadership, providing clear insights into business performance and facilitating informed decision-making.
Communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels of the organisation globally, building strong relationships and fostering collaboration.
Prepare and deliver presentations to senior management, clearly articulating complex financial information.
Adopts flexible and adaptable approach to changing business requirements and priorities to ensure strategic objectives are met, including ad-hoc projects/requests.
Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and systems, leveraging technology and best practices.
Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging trends in finance and technology, sharing knowledge with the team.
Reports To: ET Senior Finance Manager
Desired Skills and Experiences:
A full accounting qualification (ACA/ACCA/CA) is essential.
Proven track record of leading and managing finance transformation projects in a fast-paced, global environment with challenging deadlines. Experience in driving process improvements and implementing new technologies is preferred.
Experience in Public Accounting (Big 4 preferable) is desirable.
In-depth knowledge of accounting standards (IFRS) is essential.
Previous financial reporting experience with large (preferably UK and/or US listed) complex and multi-currency group consolidations and financial reporting issues.
Ability to communicate with people tactfully and effectively to influence project outcomes.
Sound project management skills with proven record of meeting multiple deadlines under pressure.
Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word.
Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) is highly desirable.
Experience with handling large data sets and data visualisation tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus.
Strong understanding of IT finance principles and practices is preferred.
Experience in leading and managing teams through fast-paced projects.
Adaptable and flexible in a changing environment, with a willingness to embrace current challenges.
Committed to continuous learning and professional development.
We believe in the power of creativity, technology and talent to create brighter futures or our people, our clients and our communities. We are creative leaders and pioneers of our industry; Scale and prospect – We offer the opportunity to create, influence and complete projects at a scale that is unparalleled in the industry.
Challenging and stimulating work – Unique work and the opportunity to join a group of creative problem solvers. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.
📌 Manager, Investment Analysis & Financing (Chennai)
🏢 WPP
📍 Chennai