Finance Manager Resume Examples & Templates

6 free customizable and printable Finance Manager samples and templates for 2025. Unlock unlimited access to our AI resume builder for just $9/month and elevate your job applications effortlessly. Generating your first resume is free.

Assistant Finance Manager Resume Example and Template

Michael Thompson

New York, NY

|

himalayas.app/@michaelthompson

Detail-oriented Assistant Finance Manager with over 5 years of experience in financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting within high-stakes environments. Proven track record of improving financial processes and supporting management in strategic decision-making.

Professional Experience

Goldman Sachs

New York, NY

Assistant Finance Manager

Jun 2021 - Present
  • Assisted in the preparation of annual budgets totaling over $500 million, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
  • Conducted financial analysis and variance reporting that led to a 15% reduction in unnecessary expenditures.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive process improvements, enhancing reporting accuracy by 25%.

JP Morgan

New York, NY

Financial Analyst

Jan 2018 - May 2021
  • Developed financial models to support strategic planning and investment decisions, resulting in a 20% increase in ROI on projects.
  • Prepared monthly financial statements and dashboards for senior management review, improving decision-making efficiency.
  • Supported audits and compliance processes, reducing discrepancies by 30% through diligent financial oversight.

Education

Columbia University

New York, NY

M.B.A. Finance

2016 - 2018

Specialization in corporate finance and investment management, with a focus on quantitative analysis and financial modeling.

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong quantifiable achievements

The resume highlights significant accomplishments, such as a 15% reduction in expenditures and a 20% ROI increase. These metrics showcase Michael's ability to drive financial success, which is essential for a Finance Manager role.

Comprehensive skill set

Michael lists a wide range of relevant skills, including financial analysis and budgeting, which align well with the expectations for a Finance Manager. This demonstrates a solid foundation for managing financial operations effectively.

Relevant work experience

His experience at Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan provides a strong background in financial management. This experience is crucial for a Finance Manager, as it shows he can handle high-stakes financial environments.

Clear and concise introduction

The introductory statement effectively summarizes Michael's qualifications and experience in finance. This gives a quick overview of his value, which is important for grabbing the attention of hiring managers.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lack of targeted keywords

The resume could benefit from incorporating specific keywords related to the Finance Manager role, such as 'financial strategy' or 'team leadership.' This would enhance ATS compatibility and relevance to the job description.

Limited summary of responsibilities

While achievements are well-presented, the responsibilities listed under each role could be more detailed. Emphasizing leadership roles or strategic contributions would better align with the expectations for a Finance Manager.

Education details could be expanded

The education section mentions an M.B.A. but lacks detail on relevant coursework or projects. Including specific courses related to finance could strengthen his qualifications for a Finance Manager position.

Formatting consistency

To improve readability, consider ensuring consistent formatting throughout the resume. For example, aligning bullet points and ensuring uniform spacing can help present a more polished appearance.

Finance Manager Resume Example and Template

Yuki Tanaka

Tokyo, Japan

|

himalayas.app/@yukitanaka

Detail-oriented Finance Manager with over 10 years of experience in financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning within the banking sector. Proven track record of enhancing profitability and driving operational efficiencies through data-driven insights and effective team leadership.

Professional Experience

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group

Tokyo, Japan

Finance Manager

May 2020 - Present
  • Led financial forecasting and budgeting processes, achieving a 15% reduction in operational costs over two years.
  • Implemented financial performance metrics that improved reporting accuracy by 30% and facilitated informed decision-making.
  • Managed a team of 8 financial analysts, providing mentorship and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Nomura Holdings

Tokyo, Japan

Senior Financial Analyst

Mar 2016 - Apr 2020
  • Conducted comprehensive financial analysis for investment opportunities, contributing to a 20% increase in ROI.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop strategic initiatives that enhanced market competitiveness.
  • Produced detailed monthly financial reports that highlighted variances and key performance indicators.

Education

Keio University

Tokyo, Japan

M.B.A. in Finance

2014 - 2016

Specialized in corporate finance and investment management, actively participated in finance case competitions.

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong impact in work experience

The experience section showcases significant achievements, like a 15% reduction in operational costs and a 20% increase in ROI. These quantifiable results demonstrate Yuki's ability to positively impact financial performance, which is essential for a Finance Manager.

Clear and concise summary

The summary effectively highlights Yuki's 10 years of experience and core competencies in financial analysis and strategic planning. This clarity helps align the candidate's background with the expectations of a Finance Manager role.

Relevant skills listed

Yuki includes key skills such as financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic planning, which are crucial for a Finance Manager. This alignment enhances the resume's effectiveness in catching the attention of hiring managers.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lacks specific technical skills

The skills section could benefit from including specific tools or software commonly used in finance, like Excel or ERP systems. This would strengthen the resume's alignment with the Finance Manager role and improve ATS matching.

No measurable team leadership impact

While Yuki mentions managing a team of 8 analysts, the resume lacks quantifiable outcomes from this leadership. Adding specifics, such as improvements in team performance or project outcomes, would enhance this section.

No mention of certifications

If Yuki holds any relevant certifications, like CFA or CPA, these should be included. Certifications can significantly bolster credibility and demonstrate commitment to the finance profession, which is important for a Finance Manager.

Senior Finance Manager Resume Example and Template

Michael van der Merwe

Dynamic Senior Finance Manager with over 10 years of experience in financial planning, analysis, and management. Proven track record in improving financial performance and implementing effective financial strategies in a fast-paced banking environment.

Johannesburg, South Africa
+27 21 123 4567
himalayas.app/@michaelvdmerwe

Experience

Feb 2020 - Present
Senior Finance Manager,Standard Bank|Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Led a team of 15 finance professionals to develop and execute annual budgets exceeding ZAR 5 billion.
  • Implemented financial control measures that reduced operational costs by 25% over 3 years.
  • Streamlined financial reporting processes, reducing month-end closing time by 40% and improving accuracy.
Jan 2015 - Jan 2020
Finance Manager,ABSA Group|Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Managed financial reporting, forecasting, and analysis for a portfolio worth ZAR 3 billion.
  • Developed financial models that improved decision-making and increased revenue by 15%.
  • Coordinated with cross-functional teams to enhance budget planning processes and financial compliance.
May 2012 - Dec 2014
Senior Financial Analyst,Nedbank|Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Conducted detailed financial analysis leading to insights that supported strategic business initiatives.
  • Assisted in the preparation of quarterly and annual financial reports for senior management.
  • Increased forecasting accuracy by implementing advanced analytical techniques.

Education

2010 - 2012
MBA in Finance,University of Cape Town
Focused on corporate finance and strategic management. Completed a thesis on financial risk management in banking.
2006 - 2009
B.Com Accounting,University of Pretoria
Graduated with honors in accounting, with coursework in financial analysis and management.

Skills

Financial PlanningBudgetingFinancial AnalysisRisk ManagementTeam LeadershipStrategic Planning

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong leadership experience

The candidate led a team of 15 finance professionals, showcasing their ability to manage a large group effectively. This experience is vital for a Finance Manager role, where leadership and team collaboration are key.

Quantifiable achievements

The resume highlights significant achievements, such as reducing operational costs by 25% and improving revenue by 15%. These quantifiable results demonstrate the candidate's impact, which is crucial for a Finance Manager.

Relevant educational background

An MBA in Finance and a B.Com in Accounting provide a solid foundation for the Finance Manager position. This educational background aligns well with the job requirements and adds credibility to the candidate's expertise.

Effective use of action verbs

The resume uses strong action verbs like 'Led,' 'Implemented,' and 'Developed.' This choice helps to convey a sense of proactivity and effectiveness, essential traits for a Finance Manager.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lacks a tailored summary

The summary could better align with the Finance Manager role. Including specific skills or experiences that directly relate to this position would make it more compelling and relevant.

Skills section could be more specific

The skills listed are broad. Adding specific technical skills like 'SAP' or 'Excel advanced functions' would strengthen the appeal to ATS and hiring managers looking for precise expertise.

Missing industry keywords

The resume could benefit from incorporating more industry-specific keywords related to finance management. This would enhance its chances of passing ATS filters, ensuring it reaches hiring managers.

Limited detail on strategic planning

While the resume mentions strategic planning, it lacks specific examples of how the candidate executed this. Adding a brief example would showcase their strategic thinking abilities, important for a Finance Manager.

Finance Director Resume Example and Template

Marco Rossi

Accomplished Finance Director with over 10 years of experience in financial management, strategic planning, and operational excellence. Proven track record in leading financial teams to enhance profitability and drive business growth in fast-paced environments.

Turin, Italy
+39 06 1234 5678
himalayas.app/@marcorossi

Experience

Mar 2020 - Present
Finance Director,Fiat Chrysler Automobiles|Turin, Italy
  • Developed and implemented financial strategies resulting in a 25% increase in profitability over three years
  • Streamlined budgeting processes, reducing the annual budget cycle time by 30%
  • Led a team of 15 finance professionals in forecasting and financial analysis, enhancing accuracy by 20%
May 2016 - Feb 2020
Senior Finance Manager,Eni S.p.A.|Rome, Italy
  • Managed the financial planning and analysis function, leading to improved decision-making across all business units
  • Reduced costs by 15% through strategic vendor negotiations and process optimizations
  • Presented quarterly financial reports to executive leadership, enhancing transparency and accountability
Jan 2012 - Apr 2016
Finance Analyst,Unicredit Group|Milan, Italy
  • Conducted financial modeling and forecasting for investment projects, increasing project success rates by 35%
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive financial performance initiatives
  • Developed comprehensive financial reports for stakeholders, supporting strategic planning efforts

Education

2009 - 2011
M.B.A. in Finance,Bocconi University
Specialized in corporate finance and investment analysis. Completed a thesis on risk management in multinational corporations.
2005 - 2009
B.A. in Economics,University of Turin
Focused on microeconomics and financial theory, graduated with honors.

Skills

Financial AnalysisStrategic PlanningBudgetingTeam LeadershipRisk ManagementCost ReductionFinancial Reporting

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong impact in financial strategies

The resume highlights a 25% increase in profitability due to developed financial strategies. This quantifiable result showcases the candidate's effectiveness in improving financial performance, which is crucial for a Finance Manager.

Effective team leadership experience

Leading a team of 15 finance professionals demonstrates strong leadership skills. This experience is pivotal for a Finance Manager, as it shows the ability to manage and motivate teams to achieve financial goals.

Clear and concise summary

The summary effectively communicates the candidate's extensive experience and achievements in financial management. It sets a strong tone that aligns well with the expectations for a Finance Manager role.

Relevant educational background

The M.B.A. in Finance and B.A. in Economics provide a solid educational foundation. This background is essential for a Finance Manager, emphasizing knowledge in financial theory and practices.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lack of direct relevance to Finance Manager role

The resume title is 'Finance Director,' which might misalign with the Finance Manager position. Adjusting the title in the resume to reflect 'Finance Manager' would clarify the candidate's intent and make it more targeted.

Absence of specific finance software skills

The skills section lists general finance skills but lacks specific software tools like SAP or Oracle. Adding these would enhance the resume's alignment with the technical requirements of a Finance Manager role.

Limited soft skills representation

The resume could benefit from highlighting soft skills such as communication or problem-solving. These are critical for a Finance Manager who needs to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders.

No mention of regulatory knowledge

Understanding financial regulations is vital for a Finance Manager. Including knowledge of compliance or regulatory frameworks would strengthen the resume and align it with job expectations.

VP of Finance Resume Example and Template

Emma Thompson

London, UK • [email protected] • +44 20 7946 0958 • himalayas.app/@emmathompson

Professional summary

Dynamic and results-driven VP of Finance with over 12 years of experience in financial management and strategic planning for leading multinational companies. Proven track record in optimizing financial performance and driving growth through innovative financial strategies and operational improvements.

Education

London Business SchoolLondon, UK
M.B.A. in Finance2010 - 2012
Specialized in corporate finance and investment strategies. Graduated with distinction.
University of ManchesterManchester, UK
B.Sc. in Economics2006 - 2010
Focused on microeconomic theory and quantitative methods.

Experience

GlobalTech InnovationsLondon, UK
VP of FinanceMay 2021 - Present
  • Developed and implemented financial strategies that increased revenue by 30% within two years.
  • Streamlined budgeting processes resulting in a 25% reduction in operational costs.
  • Led a team of 50 finance professionals, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
FinCorp SolutionsManchester, UK
Director of Financial Planning & AnalysisJan 2016 - Apr 2021
  • Oversaw financial forecasting and analysis, improving accuracy by 40% through enhanced data modeling techniques.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive strategic initiatives, resulting in a 20% growth in market share.
  • Implemented new financial reporting systems that reduced monthly close time by 50%.
FinancePro GroupBirmingham, UK
Senior Financial AnalystMay 2012 - Dec 2015
  • Conducted detailed financial analysis to support strategic business decisions, contributing to a 15% increase in profitability.
  • Developed comprehensive financial models to evaluate potential investment opportunities.
  • Provided analytical support for quarterly earnings calls, enhancing investor relations.

Skills

Technical: Financial Strategy, Budgeting, Forecasting, Team Leadership, Cost Reduction, Financial Modeling, Data Analysis

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong quantifiable achievements

The resume showcases impactful achievements like increasing revenue by 30% and reducing operational costs by 25%. These quantifiable results demonstrate Emma's effectiveness in financial management, which is vital for a Finance Manager role.

Clear and relevant skills section

The skills listed, such as Financial Strategy and Budgeting, align well with the responsibilities of a Finance Manager. This ensures that the resume appeals to both hiring managers and ATS systems looking for specific competencies.

Compelling summary statement

Emma's introduction effectively highlights her experience and track record in financial management. This strong summary grabs attention and sets the tone for her qualifications relevant to the Finance Manager position.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Lacks targeted keywords for Finance Manager

The resume could benefit from including specific keywords commonly found in Finance Manager job descriptions, such as 'financial reporting' or 'compliance management'. This could enhance visibility in ATS screenings.

Limited educational detail

While the education section lists relevant degrees, adding specific coursework or projects related to financial management could further strengthen Emma's qualifications for a Finance Manager role.

Missing certifications

The resume doesn't mention any relevant certifications like CPA or CFA, which are often preferred for Finance Manager positions. Including these would add credibility and appeal to employers.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Resume Example and Template

Yuki Tanaka

Dynamic and results-oriented Chief Financial Officer with over 15 years of experience in financial management, strategic planning, and corporate governance. Proven track record in transforming financial operations, optimizing profitability, and mitigating risks across multinational organizations.

Tokyo, Japan
+81 3-1234-5678
himalayas.app/@yukitanaka

Experience

May 2020 - Present
Chief Financial Officer (CFO),Nippon Steel Corporation|Tokyo, Japan
  • Oversaw the financial strategy and operations for a leading steel manufacturer with annual revenues exceeding $20 billion
  • Implemented cost-reduction initiatives that decreased operational expenses by 15% within the first year
  • Led a successful capital raise of $500 million to fund expansion projects and enhance production capabilities
Apr 2016 - Apr 2020
Senior Vice President of Finance,Mitsubishi Corporation|Tokyo, Japan
  • Managed financial planning and analysis for a diversified trading company with a global presence
  • Developed and executed financial models that improved forecasting accuracy by 30%
  • Streamlined reporting processes, reducing report generation time by 40%
Jan 2012 - Mar 2016
Finance Director,Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings|Tokyo, Japan
  • Directed financial operations and strategic initiatives for a major financial services firm
  • Implemented risk management frameworks that reduced financial exposure by 25%
  • Successfully led a team of analysts and finance professionals to achieve corporate financial goals

Education

2008 - 2010
MBA in Finance,Keio University
Specialized in corporate finance and investment strategies. Graduated with honors.
2004 - 2008
Bachelor's Degree in Economics,Tokyo University
Focused on macroeconomic theory and financial markets.

Skills

Financial StrategyRisk ManagementCorporate GovernanceFinancial AnalysisBudgetingCost ReductionCapital Raising

What's this resume sample doing right?

Strong leadership experience

The resume highlights extensive leadership roles, such as Chief Financial Officer, showcasing Yuki's capability in managing financial strategies for large organizations. This aligns well with the Finance Manager role, where leadership and strategic oversight are crucial.

Quantifiable achievements

Yuki effectively demonstrates impact through quantifiable results, like decreasing operational expenses by 15% and improving forecasting accuracy by 30%. These metrics provide strong evidence of capability and are essential for the Finance Manager position.

Relevant educational background

With an MBA in Finance and a Bachelor's in Economics, Yuki possesses a solid educational foundation that supports the technical requirements of a Finance Manager. This background enhances credibility in financial decision-making.

Comprehensive skills section

The skills section includes critical competencies like Risk Management and Financial Strategy, which are directly relevant to the Finance Manager role. This alignment helps in passing ATS filters and captures the attention of hiring managers.

How could we improve this resume sample?

Job title mismatch

The title 'Chief Financial Officer' may not resonate well for a Finance Manager position. Consider rephrasing the title to reflect the desired role, such as 'Finance Manager with experience in strategic planning'.

Lacks a tailored summary

The summary is more focused on the CFO role rather than the Finance Manager position. Tailoring the summary to emphasize skills and experiences relevant to finance management would strengthen the resume.

Insufficient soft skills representation

The resume lists technical skills but lacks emphasis on soft skills like communication and teamwork. Adding these can enhance Yuki's profile for a Finance Manager, as these skills are vital for collaboration and leading teams.

Formatting could improve readability

The resume could benefit from clearer section headings and spacing to enhance readability. Simplifying the layout will help hiring managers quickly grasp Yuki's qualifications for the Finance Manager role.

1. How to write a Finance Manager resume

Landing a Finance Manager position can be tough, especially when you're up against candidates with similar qualifications. How can you make your resume catch the eye of hiring managers? They look for clear evidence of your financial expertise and leadership skills, not just a list of job titles. Many applicants mistakenly focus on their responsibilities instead of showcasing their tangible achievements.

This guide will help you craft a resume that highlights your financial accomplishments and leadership qualities. You’ll learn how to transform vague statements into quantifiable successes, like showing how you improved budgeting efficiency by a significant percentage. We'll cover essential sections like work experience and resume summary to ensure your qualifications stand out. By the end, you'll have a polished resume ready to impress employers.

Use the right format for a Finance Manager resume

When crafting a resume for a Finance Manager position, opt for a chronological format. This highlights your career progression and showcases your relevant experience in finance roles over time. If you've had a varied career or gaps, consider a combination format, which allows you to emphasize skills while still presenting a timeline of your work history. Always ensure your resume is ATS-friendly by using clear sections, avoiding columns, tables, or complex graphics.

Here are common formats to consider:

  • Chronological: Best for those with steady career progression in finance.
  • Functional: Useful for career changers, focusing on skills rather than job history.
  • Combination: Ideal for those with diverse experiences or gaps, blending both skills and work history.

Craft an impactful Finance Manager resume summary

A resume summary is a brief statement that highlights your experience, specialization, key skills, and top achievements. For experienced candidates applying for a Finance Manager role, this section should be a summary. However, if you're an entry-level candidate or changing careers, an objective statement can be more effective. Use the formula: '[Years of experience] + [Specialization] + [Key skills] + [Top achievement]'. This structure helps to quickly convey your value to potential employers.

For Finance Managers, focus on financial expertise, leadership skills, and significant accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to drive financial success.

Good resume summary example

Experienced Finance Manager with 8 years of experience in financial planning and analysis. Proven track record of reducing operational costs by 20% while improving financial reporting accuracy. Strong leadership skills with a focus on team development and strategic decision-making.

This works because it directly showcases years of experience, relevant skills, and a significant achievement, making a strong case for the candidate's capabilities.

Bad resume summary example

Finance professional with some experience in budgeting and financial analysis. Looking to grow in a finance role.

This fails as it lacks specificity and doesn't highlight key achievements or skills, making it less impactful for hiring managers.

Highlight your Finance Manager work experience

List your work experience in reverse-chronological order, clearly stating your Job Title, Company, and Dates of Employment. Use bullet points to detail your responsibilities and achievements, beginning each bullet with strong action verbs relevant to finance. Quantifying your impact with metrics is crucial; for instance, 'Increased departmental efficiency by 30%' is better than 'Responsible for improving efficiency.' Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure bullet points effectively.

This clear structure helps hiring managers quickly assess your qualifications and contributions in previous roles.

Good work experience example

- Developed and implemented a budgeting process that reduced costs by 15% at Zboncak Inc, leading to a savings of $500,000 annually.

This works because it starts with a strong action verb and quantifies the impact, showing clear results from the candidate's efforts.

Bad work experience example

- Assisted in financial reporting and budgeting tasks at Morissette-Lynch.

This fails as it lacks specific results or metrics, making it seem vague and less impactful.

Present relevant education for a Finance Manager

Include details such as School Name, Degree, and Graduation Year. For recent graduates, make this section more prominent and consider adding GPA or relevant coursework. For experienced professionals, keep this section concise, often omitting GPA. If you have relevant certifications, include them here or in a separate section. This helps to establish your educational foundation and any additional qualifications that enhance your candidacy.

Good education example

University of Finance, Bachelor of Science in Finance, Graduated May 2013, GPA: 3.8. Certified Financial Planner (CFP).

This works because it provides clear information about the degree, graduation date, and GPA, showcasing strong academic performance and relevant certifications.

Bad education example

Finance Degree from a university.

This fails as it lacks specifics like the school name or graduation date, making it less informative for potential employers.

Add essential skills for a Finance Manager resume

Technical skills for a Finance Manager resume

Financial analysisBudget managementForecastingCost reduction strategiesFinancial reportingData analysisRisk managementAccounting principlesTax compliance

Soft skills for a Finance Manager resume

LeadershipCommunicationProblem-solvingAttention to detailStrategic thinkingTeam collaborationTime managementAnalytical thinking

Include these powerful action words on your Finance Manager resume

Use these impactful action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities:

DevelopedImplementedManagedAnalyzedReducedStreamlinedPresentedForecastedSupervisedCollaboratedLedOptimizedAdvisedTrainedMonitored

Add additional resume sections for a Finance Manager

Consider adding sections like Projects, Certifications, or Languages to showcase additional relevant experiences. These can set you apart and demonstrate your commitment to professional development as a Finance Manager. Highlighting significant projects or certifications can provide concrete examples of your skills and how they apply to the role.

Good example

Project: Led a cross-departmental team to implement a new financial software system that improved reporting efficiency by 40% at Zboncak Inc.

This works because it provides a clear example of leadership and a quantifiable achievement, demonstrating the candidate's impact.

Bad example

Worked on various finance projects.

This fails because it's too vague and doesn't provide specific details or outcomes, making it less engaging for potential employers.

2. ATS-optimized resume examples for a Finance Manager

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software that companies use to filter job applications. They scan resumes for keywords and relevant information, helping employers find suitable candidates quickly. For a Finance Manager role, optimizing your resume for ATS is crucial, because a poorly formatted resume might get rejected before it reaches human eyes.

To make your resume ATS-friendly, follow these best practices:

  • Use standard section titles like 'Work Experience', 'Education', and 'Skills'.
  • Incorporate relevant keywords from Finance Manager job descriptions, such as 'financial analysis', 'budgeting', 'forecasting', and specific software like 'Excel' or 'SAP'.
  • Avoid complex formatting like tables, columns, or images, which can confuse the ATS.
  • Stick to standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman.
  • Save your resume as a PDF or .docx file, avoiding designs that might disrupt parsing.

Common mistakes include using creative synonyms instead of exact keywords. Relying on formatting elements like headers can lead to ignored content. Also, don’t omit critical skills or tools like 'financial reporting' or 'GAAP'. Keeping these tips in mind can help ensure your resume makes it through the ATS and into the hands of hiring managers.

ATS-compatible example

Work Experience

Finance Manager at Heller Inc.
Managed a team of analysts to conduct financial forecasting and budgeting. Improved reporting accuracy by 30% through the implementation of advanced Excel models.

Why this works: This example uses standard section titles and includes relevant keywords like 'financial forecasting' and 'budgeting'. The clear formatting helps ATS to easily parse the information.

ATS-incompatible example

Professional Background

Worked at Goodwin-Hermann as a Finance Guru.
Was involved in some budgeting and financial analysis tasks, used various tools to help out.

Why this fails: The section title 'Professional Background' is non-standard, which can confuse the ATS. The term 'Finance Guru' isn't a recognized job title, and the lack of specific keywords makes it less effective for ATS parsing.

3. How to format and design a Finance Manager resume

When you’re crafting a resume for a Finance Manager role, choosing the right template is crucial. You want a clean, professional layout that highlights your skills and experience effectively. A reverse-chronological format is often preferred because it makes it easy for employers to see your career progression and relevant achievements quickly.

Opt for a one-page resume if you're early in your career or have a mid-level background. If you've got extensive experience, a two-page resume is acceptable. Just remember to keep it concise and focused on the most relevant information.

For fonts, go with something like Calibri or Arial, sized between 10-12pt for the body text and 14-16pt for headers. Make sure there’s plenty of white space to keep your resume readable. Avoid overly creative designs that might confuse ATS software or human readers alike.

Well formatted example

Anton Emard
Finance Manager
[Contact Information]

Professional Experience
Marvin LLC, Finance Manager
- Managed a team of 5 in financial planning and analysis.
- Improved budgeting processes, reducing costs by 15% over 2 years.

This layout is straightforward and highlights key achievements clearly. The use of bold for headings makes it easy to scan, ensuring both ATS and hiring managers can quickly find relevant information.

Poorly formatted example

Chanelle Kertzmann
Finance Manager
[Contact Information]

Experience
Schuppe-Kihn | 2018-2023
- Oversaw financial operations, with a team.
- Implemented strategies that were effective.

This format lacks clear section headings and is cluttered with vague details. It's not ATS-friendly and may leave hiring managers confused about your actual accomplishments and responsibilities.

4. Cover letter for a Finance Manager

A tailored cover letter for a Finance Manager role is essential. It complements your resume and shows your genuine interest in the position. This is your chance to highlight how your skills and experience align with the company's needs.

Start with a strong header that includes your contact information and the date. In the opening paragraph, clearly state you're applying for the Finance Manager position. Show enthusiasm for the company and mention a key qualification that makes you a great fit.

The body paragraphs should connect your experience to the job requirements. Highlight key projects where you've managed budgets, demonstrated analytical skills, or improved financial processes. Use specific examples, like managing a budget of over $1 million, to showcase your achievements. Tailor your letter by using keywords from the job description, which helps show you're a good match.

  • Opening Paragraph: State the job title and express enthusiasm.
  • Body Paragraphs: Connect your experience to the job requirements.
  • Closing Paragraph: Reiterate your interest and request an interview.

In your closing, express your strong interest in the Finance Manager role and your confidence in contributing to the company’s success. Thank the reader for their time and suggest a follow-up discussion. Keep your tone professional, confident, and enthusiastic throughout.

Sample a Finance Manager cover letter

Dear Hiring Team,

I am excited to apply for the Finance Manager position at Acme Corp, as advertised on your careers page. With over seven years of experience in financial management, I have a proven track record of improving financial processes and driving company growth. I am particularly impressed by Acme Corp's commitment to innovation and excellence, and I am eager to contribute to your team.

In my previous role at Beta Financial Services, I successfully managed a budget exceeding $2 million and implemented cost-saving measures that reduced expenses by 15% within one year. I led a team that developed a new financial reporting system, which improved reporting accuracy and reduced the time spent on financial analysis by 30%. My strong analytical skills and attention to detail enable me to make data-driven decisions that support organizational goals.

I am confident that my expertise in financial forecasting and strategic planning will be valuable to Acme Corp. I am eager to apply my skills to help your company achieve its financial objectives and drive successful outcomes.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the success of Acme Corp as your new Finance Manager.

Sincerely,
John Smith

5. Mistakes to avoid when writing a Finance Manager resume

Creating a resume for a Finance Manager role can be challenging. It's crucial to avoid common mistakes that could undermine your qualifications. Attention to detail can set you apart from other candidates.

By addressing these pitfalls, you can present your skills and experiences in the best light.

Avoid vague job descriptions

Mistake Example: "Responsible for managing budgets and financial reports."

Correction: Be specific about your contributions. Instead, write: "Oversaw a $5 million budget and improved financial reporting efficiency by 30% through advanced Excel modeling."

Don't use a generic resume

Mistake Example: "I have skills in finance and accounting."

Correction: Tailor your resume for each application. Instead, say: "Expert in financial forecasting and risk management, with a proven track record at Acme Corp leading financial strategy that increased profits by 15%."

Check for typos and grammar errors

Mistake Example: "Managed a team of accountant's to ensure accuracey in reporting."

Correction: Proofread your resume carefully. Write: "Managed a team of accountants to ensure accuracy in reporting."

Avoid overstating your achievements

Mistake Example: "I single-handedly saved the company millions."

Correction: Be honest and precise. Instead, write: "Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify cost-saving measures that resulted in $1.5 million in savings."

Don't include irrelevant information

Mistake Example: "Hobbies include hiking and playing chess."

Correction: Focus on relevant skills and experiences. Instead, emphasize: "Proficient in financial software such as SAP and QuickBooks, and knowledgeable in compliance regulations."

6. FAQs about Finance Manager resumes

Creating a resume for a Finance Manager position requires showcasing your financial expertise, leadership skills, and strategic thinking. This section provides FAQs and tips to help you present your qualifications effectively.

What essential skills should I highlight in my Finance Manager resume?

Focus on key skills like:

  • Financial analysis and reporting
  • Budgeting and forecasting
  • Team leadership
  • Risk management
  • Regulatory compliance

What’s the best resume format for a Finance Manager?

The reverse-chronological format works best. It highlights your most recent experience first, allowing employers to see your career progression and relevant roles at a glance.

How long should my Finance Manager resume be?

Keep it to one page if you have less than 10 years of experience. For more extensive careers, two pages are acceptable. Just ensure every word adds value.

How can I showcase my projects or portfolios?

Include a section for key projects. Briefly describe each project, your role, and the outcomes. Use metrics to show success, like cost savings or revenue growth.

How should I handle employment gaps in my Finance Manager resume?

Be honest about gaps. Use a brief explanation and focus on skills gained during that time. You can also emphasize relevant volunteer work or freelance projects.

Pro Tips

Use Quantifiable Achievements

Employers love numbers. Whenever possible, quantify your achievements. For instance, mention how you reduced costs by a certain percentage or managed budgets of specific sizes.

Tailor Your Resume for Each Application

Customize your resume for each job you apply for. Highlight the experiences and skills that align with the specific job description to catch the employer's eye.

Highlight Leadership Experience

As a Finance Manager, showcasing your leadership experience is crucial. Mention team management, mentoring, or any initiatives you led that improved team performance.

7. Key takeaways for an outstanding Finance Manager resume

Creating a strong Finance Manager resume can make all the difference in your job search. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Use a clean, professional format that’s easy to read and ATS-friendly.
  • Highlight your relevant skills and experience tailored specifically to finance management roles.
  • Incorporate strong action verbs and quantify your achievements wherever possible to demonstrate your impact.
  • Optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems by including relevant keywords from the job description.

Take these tips to heart, and consider using resume-building tools or templates to craft a compelling resume that gets noticed!

Similar Resume Examples

Land your dream job with Himalayas Plus

Upgrade to unlock Himalayas' premium features and turbocharge your job search.

Himalayas

Free
Himalayas profile
AI-powered job recommendations
Apply to jobs
Job application tracker
Job alerts
Weekly
AI resume builder
1 free resume
AI cover letters
1 free cover letter
AI interview practice
1 free mock interview
AI career coach
1 free coaching session
AI headshots
Recommended

Himalayas Plus

$9 / month
Himalayas profile
AI-powered job recommendations
Apply to jobs
Job application tracker
Job alerts
Daily
AI resume builder
Unlimited
AI cover letters
Unlimited
AI interview practice
Unlimited
AI career coach
Unlimited
AI headshots
100 headshots/month

Trusted by hundreds of job seekers • Easy to cancel • No penalties or fees

Get started for free

No credit card required