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Accounts and Finance Manager Resume Examples

By Silvia Angeloro

Jul 18, 2024

|

12 min read

Nail your accounts and finance manager resume with these expert tips – accounting for every detail is a must. Learn how to highlight your skills, experience, and achievements to boost your job prospects.

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Writing a standout accounts and finance manager resume can feel like balancing the books with missing numbers. You might struggle to showcase your skills and experience in a way that attracts recruiters. Crafting a resume that effectively highlights your achievements, while also meeting industry standards, can be challenging. Many times, resumes lack focus and fail to fully convey the value you bring. Plus, as an accounts and finance manager, your resume should display your mastery with clarity and precision. It’s vital to present your qualifications compellingly, making it essential to have a solid guide.

Now, let’s get down to business. Choosing the right resume template is crucial for your success. A well-designed template ensures that your skills, experience, and achievements are presented in the best light. It helps in structuring your resume so it catches the eye of hiring managers and passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) with ease. Don’t underestimate the power of a good format!

Take advantage of our extensive library. We offer over 700 resume examples tailored to help you write a resume that stands out. Start your journey to a winning resume and a brighter career today!

Key Takeaways

  • Choosing the right resume template is crucial as it ensures your skills, experience, and achievements are presented compellingly and helps your resume pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
  • Include essential sections like Contact Information, Professional Summary, Key Skills, Professional Experience, Education, and Certifications to highlight your qualifications.
  • The reverse-chronological format is recommended for accounts and finance manager resumes as it effectively showcases your relevant experience and career progression.
  • Crafting a strong experience section using clear job titles, specific accomplishments, and action words can significantly boost the impact of your resume.
  • Incorporating industry-specific knowledge, accomplishments with measurable impacts, and relevant certifications can make your resume stand out to potential employers.

What to focus on when writing your accounts and finance manager resume

Your resume as an accounts and finance manager should clearly demonstrate your ability to manage financial operations efficiently. Highlight your experience in budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance with regulations. Showcase your skills in leading teams and managing financial software. To boost your resume’s impact, include specific accomplishments like:

  • Successfully led budget planning and forecasting.
  • Improved financial processes or systems, achieving X% efficiency.
  • Ensured compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Must have information on your accounts and finance manager resume

When crafting a resume for an Accounts and Finance Manager position, it's crucial to include sections that highlight your relevant skills and experience. Here are the must-have sections:

  • Contact Information
  • Professional Summary
  • Key Skills
  • Professional Experience
  • Education
  • Certifications

Including additional sections like "Professional Affiliations" and "Technical Proficiencies" can also strengthen your resume by showcasing your broader expertise and industry involvement. Tailoring these sections to your specific background can help you stand out to potential employers.

Which resume format to choose

For an accounts and finance manager resume, the best format is the reverse-chronological format because it highlights your relevant experience and career progression. Use modern fonts like Rubik or Montserrat to give your resume a contemporary look, avoiding outdated fonts like Arial and Times New Roman. Always save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and ensure it can be opened across all devices without issues. Keep your margins standard at 1 inch to provide a clean and readable layout. Use section headings clearly and strategically to make your resume ATS-friendly, helping your application get through automated screening software.

Your resume should include the following sections: contact information, professional summary, skills, work experience, education, and certifications. Adding awards and affiliations is also beneficial.

Resume Mentor's free resume builder handles all of this for you, ensuring a polished and professional result.

How to write a quantifiable resume experience section

Writing your resume's experience section as an accounts and finance manager is crucial. This is where you can make a strong case for hiring you. First, list your jobs in reverse chronological order, meaning your most recent job goes at the top. For how far back you should go, about 10-15 years is usually a good rule of thumb, unless older experience is highly relevant. Include your official job titles and ensure they make sense by industry standards.

Tailoring your resume means you focus on the job you're applying for. Highlight the experience and skills that match what the job description is asking for. Use action words to make your points stronger, like "managed," "led," and "achieved."

Gary Thompson
Accounts Manager
XYZ Company
New York, NY
Company Description
  • Handled daily accounting tasks
  • Prepared reports for the management
  • Worked with other teams on financial plans
Finance Manager
ABC Corp
San Francisco, CA
Company Description
  • Developed financial models for budgeting
  • Managed a team of junior accountants
  • Collaborated with auditors

This example is badly written for a few reasons. It uses generic bullet points that don't show the impact you made at your job. Terms like "Handled daily accounting tasks" are vague and don't highlight any achievements. Also, it doesn't use effective action words and lacks specific numbers or goals achieved.

Here is a better example:

Gary Thompson
Accounts and Finance Manager
XYZ Company
New York, NY
Company Description
  • Reduced company's expenses by 15% through strategic financial planning
  • Led a team that increased quarterly revenue by 20%
  • Implemented a new accounting software, improving efficiency by 30%
Senior Finance Manager
ABC Corp
San Francisco, CA
Company Description
  • Enhanced company's financial reporting system, reducing errors by 25%
  • Increased forecasting accuracy by 40% through refined models
  • Trained and supervised a team of 5 accountants, improving team productivity by 20%

This example is better because it uses strong action words and focuses on achievements, not just responsibilities. Each bullet point includes a number that shows the positive impact you had. Using specific numbers makes your accomplishments more clear and impressive to anyone reading your resume. It's tailored to show your direct contributions and successes in each role.

Accounts and finance manager resume experience examples

Steering through the complexities of accounts and finance management requires both precision and versatility. From tracking achievements to implementing innovative solutions, each resume section will help you show just how indispensable you are—consider it money well spent!

Achievement-focused

Strive to show your accomplishments with the details you include. Highlight tangible successes where you made a measurable impact.

Work Experience

Finance Manager

Tech Solutions Corp.

January 2020 - Present

  • Reduced month-end close process from 10 days to 2 days
  • Saved the company $100,000 annually in labor costs
  • Increased financial reporting accuracy by 25%

Skills-focused

Emphasize your key skills relevant to accounts and finance management. Use specific examples to show these skills in action.

Work Experience

Senior Accountant

Global Finance Inc.

March 2018 - December 2019

  • Created advanced financial forecasting models
  • Utilized Excel for complex data analysis
  • Ensured accurate budget planning and monitoring

Responsibility-focused

Showcase the responsibilities you managed and how they contributed to the company's operations. Detail the scope of your duties.

Work Experience

Accounting Supervisor

Retail Hub Ltd.

June 2016 - February 2018

  • Managed reconciliation of balance sheet accounts
  • Supervised a team of 5 junior accountants
  • Ensured compliance with GAAP standards

Project-focused

Detail significant projects you led or were involved in. Include the objectives, methodologies, and outcomes.

Work Experience

Finance Project Lead

Healthcare Solutions LLC.

April 2019 - November 2020

  • Coordinated with IT and operations for seamless software integration
  • Trained staff on new systems and procedures
  • Improved data accuracy and workflow efficiency by 30%

Result-focused

Discuss the outcomes of your work to show tangible results. Quantify your successes when possible.

Work Experience

Budget Analyst

Manufacturing Co.

July 2017 - May 2019

  • Achieved 98% accuracy in budget projections
  • Identified cost-saving opportunities worth $200,000
  • Improved department financial performance by 15%

Industry-Specific Focus

Tailor your experience to highlight industry-specific knowledge and skills. Use terminology and practices unique to the industry.

Work Experience

Financial Analyst

Investment Bank

August 2015 - June 2017

  • Enhanced portfolio performance by 10% annually
  • Developed sector-specific investment strategies
  • Conducted market research and risk analysis

Problem-Solving focused

Highlight instances where you identified and resolved issues. Focus on your analytical and troubleshooting skills.

Work Experience

Accountant

Audit Firm

February 2014 - July 2015

  • Identified root causes of recurring ledger errors
  • Implemented corrective measures to ensure accuracy
  • Reduced discrepancies by 50% within six months

Innovation-focused

Show your ability to think outside the box. Describe how you've introduced new ideas or methods to improve processes.

Work Experience

Financial Analyst

Tech Startup

October 2013 - January 2014

  • Developed automated report generation tools
  • Enhanced data visualization for better insights
  • Shortened report preparation time by 60%

Leadership-focused

Describe your leadership roles and how you managed teams for effective results. Emphasize your mentoring and leadership qualities.

Work Experience

Finance Manager

Consulting Firm

March 2012 - September 2013

  • Supervised a team of 10 finance professionals
  • Conducted regular performance reviews and training
  • Fostered a collaborative and results-driven environment

Customer-focused

Detail how you engaged with clients or internal stakeholders. Focus on your relationship management skills.

Work Experience

Client Relationship Manager

Accounting Solutions

December 2010 - February 2012

  • Built strong relationships with key clients
  • Ensured timely and accurate financial reporting
  • Provided strategic financial advice to help clients achieve goals

Growth-focused

Illustrate how your actions led to company or departmental growth. Provide specific examples of growth metrics.

Work Experience

Financial Development Manager

Financial Services Corp.

May 2009 - November 2010

  • Launched new financial products and services
  • Increased client base by 25% within one year
  • Boosted revenue by 15% through strategic planning

Efficiency-focused

Describe how you enhanced efficiency in processes or operations. Focus on time-saving and cost-cutting measures.

Work Experience

Accounting Specialist

Corporate Solutions

August 2008 - April 2009

  • Implemented lean accounting methodologies
  • Reduced processing time of invoices by 40%
  • Cut operational costs by $50,000 annually

Technology-focused

Highlight your use of technology to improve workflows and results. Use specific examples of software or systems you implemented.

Work Experience

Technology Implementation Manager

Tech Innovators Inc.

January 2007 - July 2008

  • Migrated accounting system to cloud-based software
  • Trained staff on new technology platforms
  • Enhanced data security and accessibility

Collaboration-focused

Explain how you collaborated with other departments or teams. Emphasize your teamwork and communication skills.

Work Experience

Financial Liaison

Logistics Co.

June 2005 - December 2006

  • Worked closely with operations to align financial goals
  • Facilitated communication between finance and marketing
  • Developed joint strategies for budgeting and forecasting

Training and Development focused

Discuss how you contributed to training and developing team members. Highlight specific training programs or initiatives you led.

Work Experience

Training and Development Coordinator

Training Hub Ltd.

March 2003 - May 2005

  • Designed and conducted financial training workshops
  • Mentored junior accountants for skill development
  • Improved team competency and performance by 20%

Write your accounts and finance manager resume summary section

Writing a resume summary for an accounts and finance manager position involves capturing your experiences, skills, and achievements concisely. This section should highlight your most significant accomplishments and how they connect to your desired role. To stand out, you must describe relevant expertise and use powerful language.

An applicant can describe themselves in a resume summary by focusing on key qualifications and experiences. Use active verbs and quantify your achievements where possible. Showcase your track record, but avoid generalities. Tailor the summary to the job you’re applying for, emphasizing skills that match the company’s needs.

A resume summary is a concise statement of your professional background and key skills, typically 3-5 sentences long. A resume objective focuses on your goals and what you seek to achieve in your career. A resume profile is a detailed summary that includes your skills, abilities, and experiences. A summary of qualifications lists your key skills and exprience in bullet points to quickly outline why you're the ideal candidate.

Here are two examples of resume summaries for an accounts and finance manager. The first one is poorly written and lacks specific details, while the second one is well-crafted and effective.

SUMMARY
Experienced finance manager with a lot of knowledge. Worked at several companies managing budgets and financial reports. Always looking for new challenges and opportunities in the field of finance.

This is a bad example because it is too vague and does not provide any specific details or achievements. Phrases like "a lot of knowledge" and "several companies" are unspecific. It lacks metrics, which makes it difficult for the employer to gauge your level of expertise. It also doesn't tailor the summary to the desired role, the language is generic, and it does not include any industry-specific skills.

SUMMARY
Results-driven accounts and finance manager with over 10 years of experience in budgeting, financial forecasting, and analysis. Proven track record of reducing costs by 15% through strategic financial planning and risk management at XYZ Corp. Skilled in financial software including QuickBooks and SAP. Adept at leading cross-functional teams to improve financial reporting efficiency.

This is a good example because it clearly outlines your experience, skills, and achievements. It specifies the number of years of experience and includes a quantifiable result (reducing costs by 15%). Mentioning specific software tools like QuickBooks and SAP shows your technical capabilities. You demonstrate leadership skills by mentioning your ability to manage cross-functional teams. These details make a strong impression, aligning well with the demands of the job.

Listing your accounts and finance manager skills on your resume

When crafting your resume as an accounts and finance manager, it's important to effectively showcase your skills. You can do this through a standalone skills section, as well as integrating skills into other sections like your experience and summary. This holistic approach ensures your competencies stand out.

A strengths and soft skills section should highlight your personal attributes and interpersonal skills. Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that you have gained through education, training, or hands-on experience.

Skills and strengths can also serve as keywords in your resume. These keywords are often scanned by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter and identify suitable candidates. Including these relevant keywords increases your chances of getting noticed.

Example:

Skills
Financial Analysis
Budgeting
Forecasting
Account Reconciliation
Financial Reporting
Tax Planning and Compliance
Variance Analysis
Regulatory Compliance

Each skill is concise and relevant to the role of an accounts and finance manager. The list is easy to read, and each item is a potential keyword. The absence of unnecessary details ensures focus and clarity, making it ATS-friendly.

Best hard skills to feature on your accounts and finance manager resume

Hard skills are specific technical skills and knowledge that you need to excel in your role. For accounts and finance managers, these skills should showcase your expertise in financial management and accounting processes, and they should communicate your ability to handle large datasets, manage budgets, and comply with financial regulations.

Hard Skills

  • Financial Analysis
  • Budgeting
  • Forecasting
  • Account Reconciliation
  • Financial Reporting
  • Tax Planning and Compliance
  • Variance Analysis
  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Risk Management
  • Internal Auditing
  • Cost Accounting
  • Financial Modeling
  • Cash Flow Management
  • Financial Software Proficiency (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP)
  • Portfolio Management

Best soft skills to feature on your accounts and finance manager resume

Soft skills demonstrate your personal attributes and how you interact with others. For accounts and finance managers, these skills should signify your proficiency in teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication, ensuring smooth operations within your team and organization.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Problem-Solving
  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Team Collaboration
  • Adaptability
  • Time Management
  • Decision Making
  • Negotiation
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Integrity
  • Critical Thinking
  • Stress Management
  • Organizational Skills

How to include your education on your resume

Your resume's education section is an essential part of showcasing your qualifications for an accounts and finance manager position. This section should be tailored to the job you are applying for. Including irrelevant educational experiences may distract the employer from your relevant credentials.

When listing your degree, ensure you mention the official name of the degree and the institution. If you had a notable GPA, include it, particularly if it was above 3.5. Writing "cum laude" or other honors can also strengthen this section, as it highlights your academic achievements.

Here is an example of a poorly written education section:

Education
BS Physics
Random University

This example is bad because it lists an irrelevant degree for an accounts and finance manager. It lacks specifications about GPAs or honors, and the listed institution might not be recognized.

Here is an outstanding education section example:

Education
MBA in Finance
Harvard Business School
GPA
3.8
/
4.0

This example is good because it lists a relevant degree for the accounts and finance manager position. It includes a strong GPA and comes from a prestigious institution, providing a clearer picture of your qualifications.

How to include accounts and finance manager certificates on your resume

Including a certificates section in your accounts and finance manager resume is essential. List the name of the certificate, include the date you earned it, and add the issuing organization. Certificates can also be featured in the header for immediate visibility. For example:

Certifications
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
American Institute of CPAs
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
CFA Institute

In this example, the certificates are highly relevant, making the candidate more attractive for the position. It shows their commitment and expertise. The CPA and CFA certifications are well-respected in the field, increasing the candidate's credibility. Adding the issuing organizations adds authenticity. The certificates section stands out, helping hiring managers easily spot essential qualifications.

Extra sections to include in your accounts and finance manager resume

Crafting a compelling resume as an accounts and finance manager involves showcasing your varied skills and experiences. Including diverse sections can highlight your multifaceted abilities and show how well-rounded you are.

  • Language section—Demonstrate your multilingual skills by listing the languages you speak and your proficiency level. This can appeal to employers with diverse client bases or international reach.
  • Hobbies and interests section—Show your unique personality by sharing activities that you enjoy outside of work. It can make you more relatable and demonstrate a balanced lifestyle.
  • Volunteer work section—Highlight your community involvement by including the organizations you have volunteered with and your roles. This can show that you possess a well-developed sense of responsibility and teamwork skills.
  • Books section—Mention books that have influenced your career in accounts and finance. This can underscore your commitment to ongoing learning and staying updated in your field.

By including these sections, you can present yourself as a dynamic and dedicated professional. This approach not only shows your technical skills but also your soft skills and broader interests. Make this resume uniquely yours, and you'll likely stand out to potential employers.

Pair your accounts and finance manager resume with a cover letter

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It introduces you to potential employers and provides context for your application. This document gives you the chance to explain why you are the best fit for the position and highlight your most relevant skills and experiences.

For an accounts and finance manager position, the cover letter should emphasize your financial analysis skills, budgeting experience, and leadership abilities. Highlight your proficiency with financial software, your ability to manage teams, and any significant achievements, such as cost-saving initiatives or successful audits. You might also want to mention your CPA certification if you have one, as well as any relevant degrees like a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Accounting or Finance.

Ready to craft your perfect cover letter? Use Resume Mentor's cover letter builder for a simple, user-friendly experience. Easily export your cover letter to PDF format to preserve its content and formatting. Start today and make a great impression on your future employer!

Riley Nelson

Austin, Texas

+1-(234)-555-1234

help@resumementor.com


Dear Hiring Manager,

Having been in the automotive industry's financial sector for over a decade, I am particularly drawn to the innovative spirit and progressive ethos of your company. My background aligns with your mission to drive sustainable profitability while optimizing business strategies.

At General Motors, I spearheaded a financial initiative that resulted in a 15% increase in ROI over two years by redefining cost targets and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams. This experience not only honed my skills in financial metrics analysis and project management but also demonstrated my ability to drive cost efficiencies and profitability seamlessly.

I welcome the opportunity to further discuss how my background, skills, and certifications can contribute to your team’s successes. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to schedule an interview.

Sincerely,

Riley Nelson

Accounts and Finance Manager
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