Head of Finance
Reporting to: Managing Director
Leadership: Senior Leadership Team
A long‑established, privately owned manufacturing company is seeking a strategic, commercially minded Head of Finance to partner directly with the Managing Director and senior leadership team. This is a pivotal role for a finance leader who thrives in a hands‑on, product‑driven environment and wants to influence the future direction of a growing business.
You’ll take full ownership of the finance function while acting as a key strategic advisor—driving cost control, strengthening inventory performance, and supporting long‑term growth.
The Opportunity
This is a rare chance to step into a role with genuine influence. You’ll shape financial strategy, improve operational performance, and ensure the business is equipped for its next phase of growth. Working closely with the MD, you’ll bring clarity, challenge, and commercial insight to every major decision.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the finance function, ensuring robust financial reporting, controls, and governance
Produce high‑quality monthly management accounts, board packs, KPIs, and performance analysis
Partner with the MD and senior leadership team to drive strategic planning and business growth
Lead budgeting, forecasting, cash‑flow management, and scenario modelling
Strengthen cost control across manufacturing, operations, and overheads
Oversee inventory management, stock accuracy, and working capital optimisation
Drive margin improvement through product costing, pricing analysis, and operational insight
Support investment decisions, capital expenditure planning, and ROI analysis
Lead continuous improvement across systems, processes, and data integrity
Manage and develop a small finance team, fostering accountability and high performance
Act as a trusted advisor to the MD, providing challenge, clarity, and commercial direction
Requirements
Experience & Background
Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA)
Strong experience in manufacturing, engineering, or product‑based environments
Proven track record in cost control, inventory management, and operational finance
Confident producing board‑level reporting and strategic insight
Experience partnering with senior leadership teams and influencing decision‑making
Strong understanding of product costing, stock, and manufacturing performance metrics
Hands‑on, proactive, and comfortable operating in an owner‑managed business
Personal Attributes
Commercially sharp with a strategic mindset
Strong communicator who can challenge constructively and influence at all levels
Detail‑driven, disciplined, and operationally curious
Comfortable balancing hands‑on delivery with strategic leadership
Thrives in a fast‑paced, practical, product‑focused environment
Benefits
What’s on Offer
A strategic leadership role with direct influence on business direction
Close partnership with an ambitious Managing Director
Opportunity to shape the finance function and drive meaningful change
Stable, supportive, and values‑driven privately owned environment
Salary of £90,000 - £100,000 Plus Benefits