Job Description: Finance Manager – FMCG Bedford Area – Office Based A rapidly growing drinks solutions provider is expanding its finance function and seeking a progressive Finance Manager to join the Senior Management Team. With a unique product offering, strong market momentum and experienced leadership, this role is pivotal to the next phase of scale and commercial maturity. Role Overview A senior, hands‑on role covering full financial management: day‑to‑day operations, cashflow, budgeting, reporting, stock and procurement oversight, and driving improved systems and controls to build a best‑in‑class SME finance function. We're looking for a commercial, organised, calm, self-driven individual who can work cross-functionally and operate independently with accuracy and pace. You will develop reporting frameworks, analyse performance and make clear recommendations to senior leadership. Key Responsibilities include Finance Operations Invoicing & SAGE, Daily invoicing and monthly statements. Accounts Receivable, Manage AR to policy; improve debtor performance. Accounts Payable, Accurate, timely AP processing. Cashflow & Month-End, Lead cashflow planning, forecasting and month‑end. Issue Resolution, Identify risks and propose solutions. Reporting Weekly KPI and performance reporting against budget and reforecast. Monthly management accounts with variance analysis and recommendations. Development of dashboards and decision‑support tools. Budgeting & Commercial Analysis Support annual budget and quarterly reforecast. Analyse customer sector performance and SKU/product profitability. Lead structured SKU review and rationalisation. IT, Systems & Professional Services Oversee IT systems, hardware and software. Manage company vehicles and insurance. Liaise with accountants on statutory accounts and submissions. Work with finance partners and lenders to support commercial operations. Candidate Professional Experience Required SME experience, ideally in the food & drink industry or broader FMCG. Hands‑on day‑to‑day finance operations. Strong commercial awareness and target delivery. Proficient in SAGE 50. Experience with stock and procurement systems. Confident using CRM data for decisions. Advanced Excel for costing, margin and portfolio analysis. Strong PowerPoint presentation skills. Canddiates Attributes Strong communication and presentation skills. High accuracy, organisation and attention to detail. Urgency, ownership and follow‑through. Able to manage cross‑functional demands independently. Calm under pressure and deadline‑driven. Package £40,000 – £50,000 DOE, plus company pension and a variety of benefits. Benefits: Company pension Life insurance Private dental insurance