This Burnley-based manufacturer has grown rapidly in recent years, operating from a modern 30,000 sq ft facility equipped with five high-speed production lines capable of turning out 50 million items annually. Employing around 120 staff, it supplies leading brands across the UK, Europe and further afield, with exports now reaching three continents. Financial performance has been strong, with turnover up over 40% currently at £40 million, with significant profits. Export growth has been especially impressive, with expansion underpinned by major investment, doubling capacity and supporting an ambition to reach £50 million.
This Finance Director job is both hands-on and strategic. Leading a small team of two, the FD oversees all financial operations, from day-to-day controls and cashflow management through to statutory reporting, banking relationships and compliance. They act as a key adviser to the MD and owner, translating financial data into clear insight to support decision-making, growth planning and risk management. With limited layers of support, the role demands a mix of technical capability, commercial awareness and willingness to roll up their sleeves, while also shaping systems, processes and strategy to ensure the business remains financially robust and well-positioned for further expansion.
The business is preparing for a potential sale, which creates an unusual but valuable context for this role, and the reason for a 12 months contract. While there is no certainty over who the future owners will be, or whether they will wish to retain this position beyond completion, there is the possibility of this role becoming permanent. The Finance Director will gain first-hand exposure to a full sale process. This includes working closely with advisers, preparing the business for due diligence, and shaping the financial narrative presented to prospective buyers.
* You must be a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with proven experience operating at Finance Director level.
* Strong background in manufacturing finance, including product costings, margin analysis, and operational support.
* Comfortable working in a hands-on environment, with the flexibility to handle tasks at all levels, from processing invoices (if needed) to preparing board-level reports.
* Resilient and adaptable, able to balance day-to-day control with strategic input.
* Committed to seeing the contract through to completion, including supporting the business through a potential sale process and beyond.
Package is comprehensive, ideally up to £110,000 (but negotiable) + bonus, car, 15% pension and more.
You must be available immediately or within 1 month. Interviews happening ASAP.