Explore a career at the strategic intersection of finance and project execution by discovering Program Finance Senior Manager jobs. This senior-level profession is a critical leadership role within organizations that manage complex, long-term projects or portfolios, such as those in aerospace, defense, engineering, technology, and government contracting. Professionals in these positions act as the vital financial nexus between project management, executive leadership, and corporate finance, ensuring that multi-million or billion-dollar initiatives are delivered on budget and align with overarching business strategy. A Program Finance Senior Manager typically oversees the entire financial lifecycle of a program or a portfolio of programs. Their core responsibility is to provide financial leadership and insight that guides strategic decision-making. This involves leading a team of program finance analysts and specialists, fostering their development, and ensuring the delivery of accurate and timely financial information. Common day-to-day duties include directing the annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting processes, developing sophisticated financial models for scenario planning, and conducting in-depth variance analysis to explain performance against plan. They are responsible for synthesizing complex financial data into clear, actionable reports and presentations for senior executives, translating numbers into business implications and risks. The role demands a unique blend of advanced financial acumen and sharp business partnership skills. Individuals in these jobs must possess a deep understanding of accounting principles, cost management, revenue recognition (especially for long-term contracts), and financial reporting. Beyond technical prowess, successful Senior Managers are strategic thinkers, adept at influencing stakeholders and collaborating with cross-functional teams including operations, engineering, and business development. They drive process improvements, ensure compliance with internal controls and external regulations, and champion a culture of financial discipline and accountability across the program organization. Typical requirements for Program Finance Senior Manager jobs include a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field, with an MBA or CPA often being highly desirable. Candidates generally need 10+ years of progressive experience in program control, project finance, or business management, with a significant portion in a leadership or people management capacity. Proficiency with financial systems (like SAP or Oracle) and advanced Excel skills are standard. The career path for those excelling in these roles often leads to Director or VP-level positions in finance or program management, offering substantial impact on an organization's profitability and strategic direction. If you are a finance leader passionate about guiding major projects to success, exploring Program Finance Senior Manager jobs could be your next career step.
