Our client is a manufacturer and supplier to the building industry. They are seeking a hands-on and commercially astute Head of Finance to lead and modernise their finance function. Working closely with the owner-managed leadership team, this role will be critical in upgrading financial systems, improving controls, and supporting strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a background in construction or manufacturing, with strong technical skills and practical experience managing all aspects of SME finance.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and manage a small, effective finance team.
* Oversee all financial operations, including cash management, controls, and compliance.
* Review and enhance financial systems, processes, and internal controls.
* Lead the migration from Sage to Xero, ensuring smooth data transition, system setup, and user training.
* Prepare timely and accurate monthly management accounts, annual statutory accounts, and financial reports.
* Oversee group reporting and consolidation, ensuring consistency across entities.
* Manage year-end audit process and relationships with external accountants and auditors.
* Provide regular budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow analysis.
* Maintain accurate accounting for Work in Progress (WIP) and retentions relevant to construction contracts.
* Ensure full compliance with the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), including timely submissions and subcontractor verification.
* Prepare and submit CIS returns and liaise with HMRC as needed.
* Act as a business partner to the management team across the business contributing financial insight to strategic decisions.
* Support commercial functions with costing, contract evaluation, and margin analysis.
Candidate Requirements:
* Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA).
* Proven experience in a senior finance position within an SME, preferably in an owner-managed environment or at a senior level within a firm of Accountants.
* Solid experience in construction or manufacturing, including knowledge of WIP and retentions.
* Strong understanding and hands-on experience with CIS compliance and reporting.
* Demonstrated experience leading or supporting accounting software migrations (ideally Sage to Xero).
* Hands-on and practical with strong commercial awareness and attention to detail.
* Strong communication and leadership skills; able to influence and support both finance and operational teams.
* Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment where initiative and autonomy are valued.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organisation and be part of their management team.