The financial manager role covers a wide range of skills, including risk assessment and credit management. Therefore, a good candidate should possess some work experience and credible qualifications such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a finance-related field. Pay attention to the skills that they have acquired through formal education such as bookkeeping, business activity reports and other relevant skills or knowledge. What to look for in an answer:

• Experience in the field in a similar capacity
• Formal education in finance
• Certifications and other skills such as CPA or CFA

The modern financial manager should have relevant experience using software such as Oracle Enterprise Resource Planning to handle various tasks including budgeting, banking and investing. The ideal candidate should be well versed in utilizing more than one money-management software application. Note how they apply software solutions to lessen their workload and improve efficiency. What to look for in an answer:

• Experience with a variety of software solutions
• Resourcefulness with tasks
• Technical proficiency

Since a financial manager is required to take care of several tasks with varying deadlines, it is possible that their workload will occasionally need prioritizing and organizing. An ideal candidate should understand that while all work is important, critical tasks must be completed before less critical ones. Pay attention to the specific example of a scenario where they had to apply their judgement and organization skills and multitask to finish everything successfully and on schedule. What to look for in an answer:

• Organizational and time management skills
• Ability to delegate duties and ask for help
• Examples of strategic planning , prioritization and good judgement

Here, the candidate’s answer will give you an idea of the kind of management style they are likely to employ if hired for the role. Attention to detail and time management skills are equally important, and they should have good communication skills and patience. As a financial manager, the ability to work together toward a common objective and achieve organization goals remains perhaps the most important quality. What to look for in an answer:

• Leadership and management skills
• An appreciation of both technical and people skills
• Understanding of the requirements of the financial manager position

Poor management can lead employees to under-perform or even leave their jobs if matters are not resolved quickly. A good candidate understands the value of making the workplace a friendly and productive environment. Pay attention to how they approach the subject of an inefficient worker, especially their independent judgement and problem-solving skills. What to look for in an answer:

• Interpersonal and motivational skills
• Good verbal and non-verbal communication skills
• Ability to remain calm under pressure

Financial managers are responsible for a firm's financial planning, financial operations and investments, and they regularly interact with the senior management. Interviewers ask this question to find out if candidates have the self-confidence to stand by their convictions and the tact to resolve differences. A qualified financial manager should be attentive to detail and should be able to explain the reasons for the stance taken.

The candidate's answer should emphasize:

• Financial knowledge
• Self-confidence
• Good communication skills

A sample response would be something like this: