Job Description
Finance Manager (Head of Accounts)
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Finance Manager (Head of Accounts) to take ownership of the company’s finance function. Leading a small team of three, this role is responsible for delivering accurate financial information, ensuring strong financial controls, and supporting the wider business with clear insights and commercial guidance. You will manage all day-to-day accounting activities, payroll costings, month-end and year-end processes, and audit preparation, while driving improvements across systems and processes.
Role Summary
The Finance Manager will oversee the full accounting cycle, produce high-quality management reporting, and act as a key partner to senior leadership. This position requires someone highly organized, detail-focused, and confident in leading a team while maintaining compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
Core Finance Operations
* Manage daily accounting activities including invoicing, ledgers, reconciliations, cash flow, and fixed assets.
* Payroll & Cost Analysis
o Prepare, review, and present monthly payroll costings to support financial planning.
Month-End & Year-End
o Lead the month-end process: journals, accruals, prepayments, and reconciliations.
o Oversee all year-end close activities and ensure timely completion.
Audit Management
o Coordinate the full audit process from planning to completion.
o Prepare audit documentation, schedules, and working papers.
Financial Reporting & Analysis
o Produce accurate monthly management accounts including P&L, balance sheet, cash flow, and job costing.
o Investigate variances and provide meaningful commentary.
o Support annual budgeting, forecasting, and longer-term planning.
Compliance & Regulatory Duties
o Prepare and submit VAT, CIS, and other statutory returns.
o Ensure compliance with HMRC rules and relevant accounting standards.
o Maintain documentation to support statutory and internal control requirements.
Commercial & Business Support
o Provide financial insight to guide operational and strategic decisions.
o Support ad-hoc analysis, costing reviews, and scenario modelling.
o Assist with supplier negotiations, pricing reviews, and broader business initiatives.