Finance business partner

Finance business partners must have excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and communicate effectively in order to explain financial concepts to and collaborate with non-finance staff. They should be able to influence key decision-makers and think strategically. Excellent commercial acumen giving clear business insight, along with expertise in project management and digital analytical skills, are also required for this role.

Finance business partners are an important bridge between the finance function, management and other areas of the business. They deliver financial information, tools, analysis and insight to executives across the business, which equips them with the information they need to make informed decisions that align with company objectives. The finance business partner role is important in providing the insight that allows managers to challenge, coach and motivate their teams. Often embedded in the business unit itself, they reduce the silo effect that exists in organisations where finance is a separate department.