We are working with a well-established, owner-managed business based in Trafford Park with annual turnover under £20 million. The business is cash-rich, profitable, and operationally hands-on, with a flat management structure and direct access to the owner. This role is critical to maintaining strong financial control and supporting the continued stability and growth of the company.
The Role
This is a broad, hands-on finance role with full responsibility for the day-to-day financial management of the business. The successful candidate will take ownership of everything from transactional accounting through to statutory reporting, tax, and audits, acting as the principal finance lead and trusted advisor to the owner.
Key Responsibilities
* Preparation of monthly management accounts, including P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow.
* Ownership and maintenance of the general ledger
* Month-end and year-end close processes
* Balance sheet reconciliations and control account reviews
* Cashflow forecasting and working capital management
* Preparation and coordination of year-end accounts
* Liaison with external auditors and management of the audit process
* VAT returns and compliance
* Corporation tax computations and liaison with external tax advisors
* Oversight (and where required, hands-on processing) of purchase ledger, sales ledger, and payroll
* Bank reconciliations and payment runs
* Commercial & Operational Support
* Supporting the owner with financial insight, analysis, and decision-making
* Cost control and margin analysis
* Process improvement and strengthening of financial control
* Ad-hoc financial analysis and project work as required
Essential
* Qualified or qualified-by-experience accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
* Strong experience in an SME or owner-managed business environment
* Solid knowledge of UK accounting standards, VAT, and corporation tax
* Experience managing audits and working with external advisor
Strong Excel skills
* Experience in manufacturing, distribution, or operationally focused SMEs
* Experience working directly with business owners or MDs
* Confident communicator able to challenge and support senior stakeholders
Hours & Benefits
* 37.5 hours per week - flexible start and finish times - office-based role
* 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
* Company pension scheme
* Competitive salary dependent on experience