Senior Commercial Finance Manager, Retail & Property
Department: Commercial
Location: Head Office, Chelsea House
This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious individual to join the highly respected Commercial Finance team at River Island. The team supports all core business areas from retail performance to product management and buying support. We help manage the cost base and guide stakeholders to achieve our financial and non‑financial objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Reporting & Performance Tracking
o Support regular reporting to senior management on financial performance, forecasts, and key business metrics.
o Use financial data to provide actionable insights into operational and commercial performance, identifying areas of opportunity or concern.
o Own the month‑end review process with area managers and territory leads – identifying risks and opportunities.
* Financial Planning & Analysis
o Own budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning for the retail business.
o Provide insightful analysis of financial performance, highlighting key drivers of variance to budget and forecast.
o Monitor and assess retail KPIs, offering actionable recommendations and challenging stakeholders across the retail business.
* Commercial Decision Support
o Partner with commercial teams to evaluate new initiatives, product launches, and promotional activities.
o Conduct cost–benefit analysis for retail strategies, identifying growth and cost‑optimisation opportunities.
o Support pricing and discounting strategies through financial modelling and margin analysis.
* Cross‑Functional Collaboration
o Build strong relationships with commercial, retail, VM, property and operational teams to influence decisions and drive financial outcomes.
o Provide financial support to stakeholders, ensuring they have the information and tools to make informed decisions.
o Monitor post‑implementation performance of new initiatives and adjust strategies as needed.
o Support development of business strategies that drive sustainable growth and profitability.
* Reporting and Compliance
o Deliver insightful board reporting focused on narrative rather than raw data.
o Maintain compliance with financial regulations and reporting standards.
* Team Leadership
o Lead and mentor the finance team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and professional growth.
o Provide guidance and support to junior staff, ensuring high‑quality analysis and decision‑making.
Qualifications & Experience
* Professional finance qualification with a minimum of 5 years PQE.
* Expert modeller – advanced Excel skills and experience building accurate financial models from scratch.
* Ability to create concise, visually driven presentations that communicate insights without further questioning.
* Commercially curious, draws conclusions and proposes recommendations.
* Confident, approachable and detail oriented with strong problem‑solving skills.
* Proven track record of driving business results through financial insights and strategic planning.
* Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
* Experience using ERP systems such as Oracle and other financial software.
What you’ll receive
* Generous staff discount – 50 % off store purchases.
* On‑site gym, subsidised restaurant & café.
* Flexible working, early Friday afternoons and paid holidays (25 days + optional additional).
* Health scheme via AXA, pension plan and generous bonus scheme.
* Staff travel allowance.
* Support for family needs – maternity, paternity, adoption and fertility treatment.
* Upskilling opportunities and succession planning.
* Give‑as‑you‑earn scheme and matched funding.
About River Island
River Island is a well‑loved British fashion brand with a vibrant culture and a commitment to diversity, equality and sustainability. As a Retail Finance professional you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, accountability and growth.
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