Finance Director – PE-Backed Manufacturing SME Location: Greater Manchester Salary: c.£100,000 equity potential The Opportunity We are partnering with a private equity-backed manufacturing SME in Greater Manchester to appoint a commercially driven Finance Director. This is a pivotal role within a high-growth business, offering the opportunity to work closely with an experienced leadership team and investors to drive scale, performance, and long-term value creation. This role is ideally suited to an ambitious, hands-on finance leader looking to step into (or build on) their first Finance Director position within a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. The Role Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with private equity stakeholders, you will take full ownership of the finance function while playing a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the business. Key responsibilities include: * Lead and develop the finance function, ensuring robust financial controls and reporting * Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and Board, supporting decision-making and growth plans * Drive budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes * Improve financial visibility, KPIs, and operational performance * Support and lead on potential M&A activity, integrations, and future exit planning * Enhance systems, processes, and reporting to support scalability * Work closely with operations, supply chain, and production teams to improve margin and efficiency * Manage banking relationships, cash flow, and funding requirements The Candidate We are looking for a high-potential, commercially minded finance professional with a strong track record in manufacturing or industrial environments. Key requirements: * Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) * Experience within manufacturing, engineering, or a related sector * Background in a PE-backed, high-growth, or SME environment preferred * Ambitious, entrepreneurial mindset with the drive to progress and make an impact * Strong commercial acumen with the ability to influence at Board level * Hands-on approach – comfortable operating both strategically and operationally * Experience improving systems, processes, and financial controls * Exposure to M&A or investor environments would be advantageous Why Join? * Opportunity to play a key role in a PE-backed growth journey * Direct exposure to investors and strategic decision-making * Real scope to shape the finance function and wider business * Fast-paced, entrepreneurial culture with significant progression potential * Equity participation aligned with value creation Package * Salary: c.£100,000 * Performance-related bonus * Equity / incentive scheme * Additional benefits Please apply with your most recent CV