Finance Manager Hybrid (Altrincham HQ, South Manchester) £55,000 – £65,000 Benefits Full-time | Permanent Forge Talent is partnering with a growing, fast-paced SME headquartered in South Manchester to recruit a commercially minded Finance Manager. This is a brilliant opportunity to join a business that’s scaling and modernising, where finance plays a central role in supporting strategic decisions. This is a hands-on role responsible for end-to-end financial operations and leadership of a small team, perfect for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and is ready to step up into a broader, business-facing position. Key Responsibilities Lead the production of monthly management accounts (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cashflow), including variance analysis and board commentary Drive budgeting and forecasting processes, working with senior leadership to align finance with commercial targets Full payroll ownership, including all statutory requirements (P11d, P60s, P32s) Oversee employee benefits schemes including pension, healthcare and insurance Ensure tight cost control, challenge spend, and monitor EBITDA performance Lead year-end processes and support external audit and statutory reporting Prepare and submit VAT returns and maintain financial compliance Manage a small finance team, driving performance, development, and efficiency Oversee all transactional finance operations: invoicing, payments, reconciliations, supplier onboarding Act as project lead for finance system/process improvements, working cross-functionally to enhance reporting and automation Contribute to commercial decision-making through ROI analysis and business case evaluation What You’ll Bring Qualified accountant (ACCA / ACA / CIMA) Previous experience in a Finance Manager or senior finance role within an SME Confident communicator – able to partner with senior stakeholders and non-finance teams Strong leadership skills – experienced in managing and developing small teams Commercially astute, detail-focused, and systems-savvy Comfortable managing both the strategic and hands-on aspects of finance Experience in the recruitment or professional services sector (including RPO or MSP models) would be a bonus but not essential. Why Apply Real ownership and autonomy Hybrid working with flexibility Opportunity to influence systems, reporting, and commercial outcomes Part of a business on a clear growth trajectory, with a high-performing senior team