Defence specialist finance contractors

Position: Defence specialist finance contractors required
Flexible interim finance contract roles across Bristol & Bath

Qualified Finance Contractors - Defence/Aerospace Bristol & Bath (2026 Pipeline)

Ready for your next assignment in 2026? The Hays Bristol & Bath Senior Finance (Qualified) team is registering experienced, qualified finance contractors for a strong new year pipeline across Defence, Aerospace and complex Manufacturing.

The opportunity

We partner with leading organisations across the Southwest to deliver strategic finance expertise on interim and contract engagements, ranging from transformation and planning cycles to programme finance and commercial assurance. If you thrive in multi disciplinary environments and enjoy shaping decisions at pace, we want to speak with you.

What you'll do (varies by assignment)

Lead planning, forecasting, risk management and scenario planning at a business wide, strategic level

Own period closes, performance packs, and insight that informs senior leadership

Support programme governance (cost control, variance analysis, earned value/benefits tracking)

Partner with engineering, commercial and operations to drive outcomes in complex, regulated settings

About you

Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA preferred)

Demonstrable experience across a range of finance roles (e.g., FP&A, Commercial Finance, Programme/Project Accounting, Costing)

Strong stakeholder skills; comfortable challenging and collaborating across functions

Desirable: sector background in Defence or Aerospace; exposure to Manufacturing environments

Desirable: awareness of SSRO supply contracts and reporting requirements

Security & compliance

Due to client work in secure environments, you must be eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC/DV). Current clearance is highly advantageous and will be prioritised where applicable.
Locations & flexibility

Location:

Roles typically based across Bristol, Bath and surrounding areas. Hybrid and on site patterns vary by client.
Rate:
Inside/Outside IR35 and day rate ranges will be confirmed per assignment.
What's next Register your interest for January-March 2026 starts and beyond. Share your CV and availability, and we'll discuss live, and upcoming briefs matched to your skill set.

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