Finance Manager – Construction Projects

About the role

Harper May Ltd, a London‑based construction and development firm, is seeking a Finance Manager to lead financial management and project reporting across its growing portfolio of residential, commercial and mixed‑use schemes. Reporting to the Finance Director, you will act as the bridge between the finance team and project delivery, providing real‑time cost visibility and clear financial insight to senior leadership.

Key responsibilities

• Execute month‑end close and deliver accurate, timely management accounts to senior leadership.
• Build and maintain project cost tracking, ensuring all schemes record actual spend, commitments and forecast outturn.
• Support rolling cash‑flow forecasting and project‑level margin analysis.
• Work with project managers and site teams to validate budgets, flag variances and trace cost drivers.
• Manage and reconcile balance‑sheet accounts, identifying and resolving control gaps.
• Prepare audit documentation, tax workings and year‑end consolidation.
• Lead process improvements – streamline close routines, strengthen reporting templates and recommend system enhancements.

Required profile

• ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent professional qualification.
• Proven track record in construction, property development, or project‑based accounting.
• Solid grasp of project accounting concepts such as WIP, retention and outturn forecasting.
• Clear communicator able to explain financial concepts to non‑finance stakeholders.
• Methodical, analytical mindset with the ability to manage multiple moving pieces.

Required skills

• Advanced proficiency in Excel.
• Experience with ERP systems for financial reporting.