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