Job Description
Dowty Propellers, part of the global GE Aerospace group, is seeking a commercially focused and analytical Project Accountant / Commercial Finance Manager to support a major high-profile aerospace programme.
This position is ideal for finance professionals who enjoy working in fast-paced engineering and manufacturing environments where financial insight directly influences operational performance and strategic decision-making.
You will work closely with project leaders, engineers, supply chain teams, manufacturing operations, and senior management to ensure accurate financial reporting, effective cost control, and strong commercial governance across the programme lifecycle.
About the Role
As the Project Accountant / Commercial Finance Manager, you will take responsibility for managing the financial performance of complex aerospace projects, ensuring robust accounting practices, accurate reporting, and compliance with internal and external financial standards.
The role combines project accounting, commercial finance, budgeting, forecasting, ERP data analysis, and strategic business support. You will also play a key role in identifying financial risks, improving reporting systems, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the programme.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys translating financial data into meaningful business insights within a technically advanced industry.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Develop and manage programme budgets, forecasts, and variance analysis activities
Monitor project spend and financial performance to maintain strong commercial control
Prepare financial dashboards, reports, and management presentations for leadership teams
Track labour, materials, subcontracting, purchasing, and work-order costs using ERP systems
Ensure accurate project accounting records in line with company policy, GAAP principles, and industry standards
Support monthly cost reviews, forecasting cycles, and spend management activities
Commercial & Project Support
- Provide financial input into bids, proposals, pricing strategies, and risk assessments
Support project planning activities using work breakdown structures and cost estimation methodologies
Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, sourcing, supply chain, and quality teams to align commercial objectives
Identify financial risks and recommend mitigation strategies to support project delivery
Analyse complex financial information to support operational and strategic decision-making
Systems, Controls & Continuous Improvement
- Improve and maintain project accounting systems for tracking profitability, costs, and revenue by project phase or work package
Support internal and external audit activities and ensure compliance with financial controls
Develop financial models and analytical tools to improve reporting accuracy and business visibility
Contribute to Lean and continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and reporting effectiveness
Communicate financial risks, project status, and key business developments clearly to stakeholders
Skills & Experience Required
The ideal candidate will bring:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline
Previous experience in project accounting, commercial finance, or programme financial management
Strong understanding of financial principles, budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and strong analytical capability
Experience working with ERP systems and financial software platforms
Excellent organisational and communication skills
Confidence working with cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders
Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
Preferred Industry Background
Experience within aerospace, engineering, manufacturing, defence, or product-delivery environments would be highly beneficial.
Benefits & Employee Package
Dowty Propellers offers a competitive and flexible employee benefits package designed to support wellbeing, career growth, and work-life balance, including:
- Company pension scheme
UK visa sponsorship opportunities
Hybrid and flexible working arrangements where possible
Private medical insurance
Life assurance and income protection
Flexible annual leave with buy/sell holiday options
Career progression opportunities within GE Aerospace
Security Clearance & UK Work Eligibility
This position requires successful completion and maintenance of Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance due to the nature of the aerospace programme and operational environment.
Useful UK government resources for applicants:
- BPSS Clearance Guidance
UK Skilled Worker Visa Information
UK Visas and Immigration Services
HMRC Business and Corporation Tax Guidance
Financial Reporting Council (FRC)
Applications from candidates requiring sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be assessed in accordance with current immigration regulations.
Why Join Dowty Propellers?
Joining Dowty Propellers means becoming part of a globally respected aerospace engineering business where innovation, precision, and collaboration drive everything we do.
This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-value programmes while partnering with multidisciplinary teams across finance, engineering, and operations. You will gain exposure to strategic projects, advanced manufacturing environments, and international aerospace operations while developing your career within the wider GE Aerospace network.