Job Description
Interim SME Finance Manager
OverviewHere at Hays, we are partnering with a growing SME in Gloucester to recruit an experienced Interim Finance Manager to support the finance function during a period of transition. This hands-on role will lead a small transactional finance team, ensure timely and accurate production of monthly management accounts, and support the Finance Director with year-end audit preparation and wider finance initiatives. Key Responsibilities
* Manage, support, and develop a transactional finance team of three (AP/AR/Payroll).
* Oversee daily transactional processing, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and strong financial controls.
* Review, enhance, and streamline finance processes to drive efficiency across the function.
* Prepare full monthly management accounts, including journals, accruals, prepayments, balance sheet reconciliations, and P&L analysis with insightful commentary.
* Support budgeting and forecasting cycles, providing financial insight to the Finance Director and wider leadership team to aid decision‑making.
* Assist with preparation for the year‑end audit, including schedules, reconciliations, documentation, and responding to auditor queries.
* Contribute to ad hoc projects, analytical work, systems improvements, and broader finance initiatives as required.
Skills & Experience Required
* Proven experience as a Finance Manager, Management Accountant, or similar role.
* Strong technical accounting skills (SME experience preferred).
* Confident managing and developing small finance teams.
* Hands-on and adaptable, comfortable working in a varied SME environment.
* Experience preparing full management accounts and supporting audits.
* Strong Excel and systems capability.
* Professional qualification (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) is advantageous but not essential.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. # 4776504