Finance Business PartnerShape the future of the North West with United Utilities
At United Utilities, we’re here to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West. As a FTSE 100 business with deep roots in our communities, we’re committed to doing the right thing for the environment, for society and for the people who work with us.
Join us and you’ll be part of a diverse, inclusive and forward-thinking organisation where your ideas matter, your growth is supported, and your impact is felt every day.
The role: Finance Business Partner
This is your opportunity to step into a high-profile, strategic role where you’ll influence decisions at the heart of our business. As a Finance Business Partner, you’ll be the trusted adviser who brings insight, challenge and clarity helping leaders make confident, commercially sound choices.
What you’ll be doing*Acting as a strategic finance partner, providing analysis, insight and challenge to drive performance
*Leading performance reporting, including KPIs, variance analysis and cost-optimisation insights
*Supporting commercial decisions across contracts and third-party spend
*Delivering high-quality decision support scenario modelling, capital evaluation and resource recommendations
*Playing a key role in strategic planning, budgeting (CBP) and forecasting (LBE)
*Working closely with the Totex Performance Team and wider stakeholders to improve financial outcomes
*Coaching and mentoring colleagues to build capability across Finance & Commercial
*Reviewing and signing off regulatory financial submissions and responding to ad-hoc analytical requests
What you’ll bring*Fully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with significant post-qualification experience
*Strong ability to challenge, influence and build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders
*Commercial mindset with a track record of driving strategic financial debate
*Excellent analytical skills—able to turn complex data into clear, actionable insight
*Confident communicator with strong presentation and negotiation skills
*Experience in planning, budgeting and target setting within a large, complex organisation
*Comfortable navigating a matrix environment and managing multiple priorities
*Resilient, collaborative and committed to continuous improvement
*Understanding of operational performance metrics, KPIs and financial/operational systems
*Knowledge of UU’s regulatory environment (or the ability to learn quickly)
What you’ll bringFully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with significant post-qualification experience
*Strong ability to challenge, influence and build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders
*Commercial mindset with a track record of driving strategic financial debate
*Excellent analytical skills able to turn complex data into clear, actionable insight
*Confident communicator with strong presentation and negotiation skills
*Experience in planning, budgeting and target setting within a large, complex organisation
*Comfortable navigating a matrix environment and managing multiple priorities
*Resilient, collaborative and committed to continuous improvement
*Understanding of operational performance metrics, KPIs and financial/operational systems
*Knowledge of UU’s regulatory environment (or the ability to learn quickly)
What it’s like to work with us?? Collaborative
We work best when we work together—sharing ideas, supporting each other and keeping communication open and honest.
?? Always improving
We’re curious, innovative and always looking for smarter, better ways to do things.
?? Inclusive and welcoming
Different perspectives make us stronger. We want everyone to feel respected, valued and able to be themselves.
?? Focused on development
Your growth matters. You’ll have access to learning opportunities, coaching and support to help you thrive.
?? Making a real impact
Your work will directly support the strategic decisions that help us deliver great water for the North West.
Why choose United Utilities?
You’ll enjoy a role with real influence, visibility and purpose plus a benefits package that recognises your contribution:
*A pivotal leadership role in a FTSE 100 organisation
*£5k cash car allowance
*Up to 20% performance-related bonus
*Competitive salary and 21% combined pension contribution
*Hybrid working to support balance and wellbeing
*The chance to lead, innovate and shape strategic decision-making
*A collaborative, inclusive culture where your ideas and expertise are valued
QualificationsQualifications
*Fully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with significant post qualification experience
Essential Qualifications
*Fully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with significant post qualification experience
Desirable Qualifications
*Degree
We rely on every employee to ensure our customers receive the best possible service, day in, day out. In return, we ensure that you will be well rewarded for your efforts, from an excellent salary through to development opportunities that will really kick start a thriving career here at UU.