I am pleased to be exclusively recruiting a Finance Manager on behalf of a long-standing client who I have partnered with since their inception. Over the years, this food manufacturing business has continued to grow, and this appointment represents a key milestone in their continued development.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Finance Manager will take full ownership of the finance function. It is a pivotal role within the business, acting as a trusted strategic partner to the leadership team - providing clear financial insight, robust controls, and commercial guidance to support ongoing growth.
This opportunity would suit a proactive, forward-thinking finance professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and is driven by continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
* Lead and manage the day-to-day Finance function.
* Oversee month-end close processes, including balance sheet reconciliations.
* Prepare accurate and timely monthly management accounts in line with Group deadlines.
* Develop and enhance monthly reporting packs to deliver meaningful business insight.
* Produce weekly and monthly KPI reporting.
* Prepare annual budgets and deliver detailed variance analysis.
* Lead forecasting processes and manage detailed cash flow reporting.
* Manage year-end audit and statutory accounts processes.
* Ensure accurate and timely VAT submissions to HMRC.
Commercial & Operational Support
* Partner with department heads to drive performance and operational efficiency.
* Review product costing and undertake detailed margin analysis.
* Approve pricing structures to ensure profitability targets are achieved.
* Identify and deliver cost-saving initiatives.
* Drive systems and process improvements across finance and operations.
* Oversee stock takes and monitor slow-moving or excess inventory.
Stakeholder Management
* Act as the key contact for auditors, banking partners, and HMRC.
* Support strategic projects and provide ad hoc financial analysis to the Managing Director
Experience & Qualifications
* Fully qualified accountant or equivalent (CIMA, ACCA, or ACA).
* Strong experience of using Xero and advanced MS Office skills.
* Manufacturing experience desirable
* Strong understanding of stock control, product costing, and margin management
* Proven experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management
Key Skills & Attributes
* Commercially minded with strong analytical capability
* Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
* Confident communicator with the ability to influence at all levels.
* Hands‑on, proactive, and solution‑focused
* Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills
* Able to work effectively to tight deadlines.
* Continuous improvement mindset
Why Join?
* Salary up to £70,000
* Pension, 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays
* Free on-site parking
* Ideally on site but hybrid working can be an option as is the opportunity to work four days a week for the right candidate.
* A genuine opportunity to play a key role within the senior leadership team.
* The chance to shape and enhance systems, controls, and processes in a growing business.
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