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Sowena Group are partnered with a High growth Independent Capital backed engineering group in the heart of Cheshire, in their search for a Financial controller/ Manager.
This Engineering business is about to undertake it's 3rd acquisition with 2 more in the pipeline and the potential for an Exit in the next 3 years. The CFO is looking for a proactive, ambitious Finance Manager to support in overseeing the 5 acquired entities, and offer mentoring for direct reports whilst overseeing and developing the monthly Management Accounts and Audit process.
Role Overview
The Financial Controller will be responsible for managing the financial operations of a group of engineering services businesses, ensuring accurate reporting, robust financial controls, and strategic financial planning. This role requires a hands-on approach to financial management, working closely with operational teams to drive profitability, cash flow efficiency, and compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
* Oversee and support the preparation of monthly management accounts for each business unit and consolidated group accounts.
* Ensure timely submission of statutory accounts in compliance with UK GAAP
* Lead the monthly financial close process, ensuring accuracy in revenue recognition, cost allocation, and accruals.
* Conduct variance analysis against budgets and provide actionable insights to management.
* Maintain a strong general ledger structure, ensuring accuracy in financial transactions and reconciliations.
Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning
* Develop and oversee annual budgets and rolling financial forecasts for each business unit.
* Work with operational teams to identify cost-saving opportunities and margin improvements.
* Monitor and report on KPIs, cash flow, and working capital, ensuring proactive management.
* Support the CFO in strategic planning, investment decisions, and acquisitions.
Cash Flow & Treasury Management
* Oversee cash flow forecasting, ensuring the group has adequate liquidity for operations and growth.
* Manage banking relationships, ensuring compliance with loan covenants and funding requirements.
* Ensure effective credit control and debtor management, reducing aged debt and improving collections.
* Oversee supplier payments and creditor management, balancing cash flow needs with operational requirements.
Financial Compliance & Taxation
* Ensure compliance with HMRC regulations, including VAT, Corporation Tax, and PAYE.
* Oversee monthly VAT returns and payroll tax submissions, ensuring timely payments.
* Ensure compliance with financial policies, audit requirements, and statutory regulations.
* Liaise with external auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies as required.
Process Improvement & Systems Development
* Implement and maintain financial controls to prevent errors, fraud, and inefficiencies.
* Improve financial reporting automation and efficiency, optimizing accounting software and ERP systems.
* Lead the implementation of new processes, policies, and best practices across the group.
* Support M&A due diligence and integration of newly acquired businesses into the group’s financial framework.
* Support the transition of new acquisitions and current group in the standardisation of systems and processes.
Key Skills & Experience Required:
* Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with 2+ years of experience in a similar role.
* Strong experience in financial reporting, budgeting, and cash flow management.
* Experience with SME businesses
* Previous experience in a multi-entity business, ideally within engineering, manufacturing, or construction. However Service businesses will be considered
* Hands-on experience with ERP/accounting systems (e.g. Odoo, Sage, SAP, NetSuite, Xero).
* Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards, tax compliance, and financial regulations.
* Ability to interpret financial data and provide strategic insights to non-financial stakeholders.
* Excellent leadership and team management skills.
* Knowledge of job costing, WIP accounting, and project-based financial reporting.
Package - £50k- £55k + £5k bonus (package could be flexible for the right candidate and level.)
This is a great opportunity for someone ambitious and eager to develop quickly, to work closely with the CFO in managing across the multiple entities within the group, with huge scope for development within the business in the future. If you are an ambitious Newly- Qualified accountant then please apply or get in touch with Mackenzie Harrop at Sowena Group
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