Innovation Finance Lead

National Energy System Operator

. Manage, report and communicate the financial performance of NESO’s Innovation portfolio .

Posted 10/23/2026full-timeWokingham • United KingdomSenior💰 £57,000 - £68,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in financial management and reporting, with a strong focus on portfolio financial operations, budget coordination, and regulatory compliance. Proficient in developing financial reports and dashboards to support senior leadership and stakeholder decision-making.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Financial ManagementPortfolio ManagementBudget CoordinationCommunication SkillsRegulatory Reporting

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Financial ReportingCost Centre ManagementVariance AnalysisExpenditure ReconciliationProject Financial Operations

Soft Skills

CollaborationEngagement Skills

Tools & Technologies

Financial DashboardsReporting Tools

Certifications & Qualifications

Degree in AccountingDegree in Finance

Industry Keywords

UK Energy SystemInnovation PortfolioAnnual BudgetsFunding RisksExternal Audits

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage, report and communicate the financial performance of NESO’s Innovation portfolio
Track and monitor NIA and SIF spend and manage Innovation Cost Centre finances
Lead portfolio financial operations, including purchase orders, invoicing, query resolution, project and supplier setup, contractual checks and financial closure
Coordinate annual budgets and milestone-aligned forecasts, including Big Ideas and NIA/SIF spend tracking
Explain variances and escalate cost pressures, overspends, underspends, delays and funding risks
Develop financial reports, dashboards and tools for senior leaders and stakeholders
Improve data quality, reporting and processes across the portfolio
Reconcile expenditure, commitments, accruals and forecasts with Finance, Innovation and wider NESO teams
Monitor Cost Centre spend against budget and validate partner cost submissions
Resolve discrepancies and retain supporting evidence
Provide financial data and evidence for annual regulatory reporting and external audits
Work across NESO teams and with external stakeholders to deliver the innovation portfolio against plans

Requirements

What you’ll need

Experience in leading financial management and reporting for projects, programmes or portfolios
A degree or qualification in accounting, finance or related discipline is essential
Strong communication and engagement skills for effective collaboration
Portfolio and project management skills
Knowledge of the UK energy system is an advantage
Right to work in the UK by the start of employment
Visa sponsorship may not be available and will be considered in line with business requirements

Benefits

Comp & perks

Bonus based on company performance
26 days annual leave as standard
Competitive contributory pension scheme with double matching up to a maximum company contribution of 12%
Annual enrollment to NESO Savings Plan with a 50% matching contribution on savings of £20–£500 per month
Flexible bank holidays and holiday trading
Additional birthday day off
Cycle to Work Scheme
Retail and gym discounts
Private medical insurance
Critical illness insurance
Personal accident insurance
Hybrid working from office and home
Flexible working arrangements