I am pleased to be exclusively recruiting a Finance Manager on behalf of a long-standing client who I have partnered with since their inception. Over the years, this food manufacturing business has continued to grow, and this appointment represents a key milestone in their continued development.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Finance Manager will take full ownership of the finance function. It is a pivotal role within the business, acting as a trusted strategic partner to the leadership team - providing clear financial insight, robust controls, and commercial guidance to support ongoing growth.
This opportunity would suit a proactive, forward-thinking finance professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and is driven by continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
*Lead and manage the day-to-day Finance function.
*Oversee month-end close processes, including balance sheet reconciliations.
*Prepare accurate and timely monthly management accounts in line with Group deadlines.
*Develop and enhance monthly reporting packs to deliver meaningful business insight.
*Produce weekly and monthly KPI reporting.
*Prepare annual budgets and deliver detailed variance analysis.
*Lead forecasting processes and manage detailed cash flow reporting.
*Manage year-end audit and statutory accounts processes.
*Ensure accurate and timely VAT submissions to HMRC.
Commercial & Operational Support
*Partner with department heads to drive performance and operational efficiency.
*Review product costing and undertake detailed margin analysis.
*Approve pricing structures to ensure profitability targets are achieved.
*Identify and deliver cost-saving initiatives.
*Drive systems and process improvements across finance and operations.
*Oversee stock takes and monitor slow-moving or excess inventory.
Stakeholder Management
*Act as the key contact for auditors, banking partners, and HMRC.
*Support strategic projects and provide ad hoc financial analysis to the Managing Director
Experience & Qualifications
*Fully qualified accountant or equivalent (CIMA, ACCA, or ACA).
*Strong experience of using Xero and advanced MS Office skills.
*Manufacturing experience desirable
*Strong understanding of stock control, product costing, and margin management
*Proven experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management
Key Skills & Attributes
*Commercially minded with strong analytical capability
*Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
*Confident communicator with the ability to influence at all levels.
*Hands-on, proactive, and solution-focused
*Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills
*Able to work effectively to tight deadlines.
*Continuous improvement mindset
Why Join?
*Salary up to £70,000
*Pension, 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays
*Free on-site parking
*Ideally on site but hybrid working can be an option as is the opportunity to work four days a week for the right candidate.
*A genuine opportunity to play a key role within the senior leadership team.
*The chance to shape and enhance systems, controls, and processes in a growing business.