Job Description
Finance ManagerJob Purpose
As a Finance Manager, you will play a key role in providing financial insights and analysis to support business decision-making. The role is responsible for accounting, management reporting, forecasting & budgeting, and financial control. Working closely with key stakeholders, this position will aid decision-making, provide recommendations to improve profitability and efficiency, and drive operational excellence.
Operating Environment
This position is based in Dartford, with occasional travel to the UK Head Office and other sites as required.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities
* Month-end and year-end close – Preparation and completion of financial close processes, including accruals, prepayments, and balance sheet reconciliations.
* Financial reporting – Preparing and publishing timely monthly financial statements and reporting packs, investigating and explaining variances to budget, forecast, and operational plans.
* Forecasting & budgeting – Translating sales forecasts into financial projections, including stock, costs, and pricing as inputs for budgeting and monthly forecasting.
* Stock & cost control – Supporting financial control over stock, purchasing, and costs, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.
* Commercial analysis – Supporting tenders, contract extensions, and new product introductions through cost price calculations and margin simulations.
* Pricing & contracts – Maintaining deal and position prices in the ERP system, collaborating with procurement and sales teams on pricing and contract management.
* Operational financial support – Providing financial insights to management and supply chain teams, supporting analysis of sales, contracts, and inventory performance.
* Business performance improvements – Working with key stakeholders to drive improvements, add value through financial analysis, and enhance decision-making.
* Cost and project analysis – Supporting operations teams in cost analysis, project evaluation, and cost-saving initiatives.
* Capex & investment tracking – Assisting with capital expenditure proposals, tracking investments, and evaluating return on investment.
* Intercompany & third-party processes – Supporting financial processes related to intercompany and third-party transactions.
* Financial controls & compliance – Ensuring best practices in financial transactions and reporting, strengthening internal controls, and documenting business processes.
* Statutory reporting & audit support – Assisting in the preparation of year-end statutory accounts, audit files, and liaising with auditors to meet reporting deadlines.
* Ad-hoc analysis – Producing financial analysis as required to support business needs.
Knowledge & Experience
* ACA, CIMA, or ACCA qualified with 3+ years PQE, preferably within an FMCG or manufacturing environment.
* Strong understanding of accounting principles and procedures.
* Experience in a commercial finance role, shaping business decisions with strong analytical insights.
* A background in costing within a manufacturing environment is advantageous.
* Proficiency in financial software, including MS Excel and integrated ERP systems.
Skills & Abilities
* Strong commercial awareness with the ability to influence decision-making.
* Ability to build effective relationships across functions and drive collaboration.
* An analytical mindset with attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to assess financial performance and provide actionable insights.
* Excellent communication and organisational skills.
* Adaptable, resilient, and able to work flexibly in a fast-paced environment.