Finance Manager interview questions and answers

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10 good finance manager interview questions

1. Imagine upper management asks you to tell them whether the company should continue offering a product/service. How would you go about it?
2. When you have to deal with multiple priorities, how do you manage?
3. If one of your subordinates made an error, how would you handle it?
4. Imagine there’s a conflict between two accountants you supervise. How do you resolve it?
5. If we bought new equipment, how would the financial statements change?
6. How would you help staff change from a “this is how it’s always done” approach to new processes you implement?
7. What kind of financial reports does upper management need and why?
8. What methods/metrics do you use to evaluate the organization’s progress?
9. What are key elements to look at when evaluating the company’s investments?
10. Is a cash flow statement enough to tell whether a company is doing well?

Here are 10 essential interview questions and sample answers to help identify the best candidates for this role.

1. Imagine upper management asks you to tell them whether the company should continue offering a product/service. How would you go about it?

This question assesses the candidate’s analytical skills and their approach to making data-driven decisions.

Sample answer:

I would conduct a thorough financial analysis, considering factors like product profitability, sales trends, and market demand. Additionally, I’d evaluate indirect factors like brand value and customer feedback. Based on the findings, I’d present a recommendation backed by data.

2. When you have to deal with multiple priorities, how do you manage?

This question gauges the candidate’s time management and prioritization skills.

Sample answer:

I prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. I also use tools like Trello or Asana to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Regular check-ins with my team ensure we’re aligned and making progress on key initiatives.

3. If one of your subordinates made an error, how would you handle it?

This question evaluates the candidate’s leadership and problem-solving abilities.

Sample answer:

I’d first assess the impact of the error. If it’s rectifiable, I’d work with the individual to correct it. I believe in using such instances as learning opportunities, so I’d discuss the mistake with the employee, ensuring they understand and learn from it.

4. Imagine there’s a conflict between two accountants you supervise. How do you resolve it?

This question probes the candidate’s conflict resolution skills.

Sample answer:

I’d arrange a meeting with both accountants to understand the root of the conflict. By facilitating open communication, we can identify the issue and collaboratively find a solution. If needed, I’d provide additional training or resources to prevent future conflicts.

5. If we bought new equipment, how would the financial statements change?

This question tests the candidate’s understanding of financial statements and accounting principles.

Sample answer:

Purchasing new equipment would increase the company’s assets on the balance sheet. Depending on how the equipment is financed, there might be changes in liabilities (if borrowed) or equity (if paid from retained earnings). Additionally, the income statement might reflect depreciation expenses over time.

6. How would you help staff change from a “this is how it’s always done” approach to new processes you implement?

This question assesses the candidate’s change management skills.

Sample answer:

I’d start by explaining the reasons behind the change and the benefits it brings. Training sessions would be organized to familiarize staff with the new processes. I believe in taking feedback and making adjustments based on it to ensure a smooth transition.

7. What kind of financial reports does upper management need and why?

This question gauges the candidate’s understanding of the information needs of senior management.

Sample answer:

Upper management typically requires reports like the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement to understand the company’s financial health. Additionally, they might need budget variance reports, forecasts, and ROI analyses for strategic decision-making.

8. What methods/metrics do you use to evaluate the organization’s progress?

This question probes the candidate’s approach to performance measurement.

Sample answer:

I rely on key financial metrics like net profit margin, ROI, and working capital ratio. Additionally, non-financial metrics like customer satisfaction and employee turnover rates provide a holistic view of organizational progress.

9. What are key elements to look at when evaluating the company’s investments?

This question tests the candidate’s investment analysis skills.

Sample answer:

Key elements include the potential ROI, payback period, and net present value. It’s also essential to consider the risk associated with the investment, its alignment with company strategy, and potential long-term benefits.

10. Is a cash flow statement enough to tell whether a company is doing well?

This question evaluates the candidate’s depth of financial knowledge.

Sample answer:

While a cash flow statement provides insights into a company’s liquidity and operational efficiency, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. To get a comprehensive view, one should also consider the income statement, balance sheet, and other relevant financial and non-financial indicators.