Finance
Key to the future of our business is the Finance team, who play just as important a role in our success as our customer assistants on the shop floor.
"They may seem as though they're behind the scenes, but it's their expertise that helps to keep us out in front."
Financial control, analysis and reporting underpin all the key commercial decisions that underpin our strategies. And that’s why our finance team plays such an essential part in keeping us at the forefront of retailing, one of the most competitive industries there is.
To give you a better idea of what it’s like to
work in these departments, we asked a
member of team to talk about the part they
play in the business.
Profile of Lydia
Head of Group Management Reporting, London
What brought you to Marks & Spencer?
After gaining my university degree, I worked in the health club industry, before deciding to move to a finance role in retail. I’d heard from a friend who’d worked for Marks & Spencer how good the people were, so I applied directly. Obviously, the chance to work for such a large and prestigious retailer was a big draw. But I was also attracted by the reward package and the fact I’d get support to achieve my accountancy qualification.
Is it a good working environment?
The team I work for is well respected and very approachable. There’s also a very flexible working culture in terms of the hours you work, as long as the job is done. We are pretty much always busy, but I do get the opportunity to experience many different areas of the business and work closely with a good mix of commercial people, which gives me the opportunity to appreciate a world outside of finance.
Can you explain more about the training youv’e received at Marks & Spencer?
I’ve had a great deal of support from the business, both in terms of funding and time off to study, which has enabled me to complete my professional accountancy qualification. I’m now looking to gain as much experience as I can across as many areas of finance as possible. This could involve everything from working as an accountant in the Food team to joining the tax department.
What is the best aspect of your job?
I pull together accounts for departments across the whole business. This gives me the chance to look at the whole picture, which I find interesting and rewarding. I also get to deal with senior management and I enjoy the level of responsibility that comes with that.
What part of your job do you find the most challenging?
A lot of people rely on the information we provide, so we need to ensure integrity of the figures we produce. Plus it can be a bit scary knowing that the accounts and analysis you provide will ultimately influence board decisions. With that in mind there can be a bit of pressure put on you to get things right, but I enjoy the challenge none the less.
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