Job Title: Finance & Utilities Manager - FTC

Location:Head Office, Leicestershire 

Salary: Competitive plus bonus & benefits

Summary of Role:

Primary day-to-day ownership of all utilities contracts (electricity, gas, water) for our NEXT & Total Platform estates. A key part of this role involves preparing and submitting all applicable sustainability data and commentary to meet internal and external regulatory commitments. This position also includes the management and development of two direct reports, ensuring efficient administrative support for all utility-related activities.

The role is offered on an initial  6 month fixed term contract basis

Responsibilities:

Contract Management & Procurement Support:

Take day-to-day ownership of utility contracts for the NEXT & Total Platform portfolios, including managing supplier relationships, chairing regular meetings,  invoice validation, and query resolution. Support the Finance Manager in procurement activities, including hedging, tender preparation, market analysis, and contract negotiation. Monitor contract performance and ensure adherence to agreed terms and conditions. Maintain accurate records of all utility contracts, 

Estate Management & Portfolio Changes:

Manage the utility aspects of new store openings, ensuring timely and correct setup of all utility supplies (electricity, gas, water) and metering. Oversee the utility disconnection and final billing process for store closures, minimising liabilities and ensuring accurate account settlement. Manage the process for onboarding new properties or brands into the utility management system, including data collection, contract alignment, and system updates. Liaise with Estates team to ensure seamless utility transitions during portfolio changes. Maintain an accurate and up-to-date database of all sites, including meter details and supply information, reflecting all portfolio changes. Oversee the utilities management for in-store concessions, including ensuring accurate meter readings (where applicable), liaising with concession partners, and managing the rebilling process for their energy consumption.

Sustainability Data & Regulatory Reporting:

Collect, collate, and analyse utility consumption data (electricity, gas, water) across the designated brand estates. Prepare and submit all applicable sustainability data and accompanying commentary as required for internal reporting and external regulatory commitments (e.g., SECR, ESOS, CRC, GHG reporting). Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of all sustainability-related data submissions. Stay updated on relevant environmental legislation and reporting requirements. Assist in identifying and quantifying energy and carbon reduction opportunities.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

Develop and maintain dashboards and reports on utility consumption, costs, and sustainability metrics. Analyse trends, identify anomalies, and provide insights to support cost control and efficiency improvements. Manage and maintain the utilities database, ensuring data integrity. Support the budgeting and forecasting process for utility expenditure.

Team Leadership & Administration:

Manage, mentor, and develop 2 x FTEs, overseeing their day-to-day tasks, providing guidance, and conducting performance reviews. Ensure efficient processing of utility invoices, meter readings, and site queries by the team. Develop and implement streamlined administrative processes for the utilities function.

Stakeholder Engagement

Liaise with internal stakeholders, including store/site managers, finance teams, and sustainability departments, regarding utility matters. Communicate effectively with external parties, including utility suppliers, consultants, and regulatory bodies.

About You

Essential:

Excellent analytical skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel / Google Sheets for data manipulation, analysis, and reporting is crucial. Good organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Effective communication and interpersonal skills. Experience in supervising or leading a small team or coordinating the work of others.

Desirable:

Experience in a utilities analysis or energy management support role.

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