Full job descriptionRobert Walters are currently supporting a rapidly growing SME looking for a Financial Controller to play a pivotal role across both industrial manufacturing and property sectors. Based in Birmingham, this position is ideal for someone who thrives on variety, enjoys working closely with senior management, and is passionate about driving operational excellence through accurate financial insight.
This is a role for someone who thrives in fast-paced, project-driven environments and is comfortable dealing with industrial stakeholders. The Financial Controller will be hands on in the day-to-day running of the finance team while simultaneously helping build out the business
Key Responsibilities
*Maintain and enhance cost accounting systems for all business activities to ensure accurate tracking of production costs, material usage, labour allocation, and overheads.
*Efficiently close monthly ledgers while preparing comprehensive management accounts including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and working capital analyses.
*Analyse trends in sales, margins, direct and indirect costs as well as variances in standard costs; investigate significant differences and provide clear explanations to senior management.Collaborate with manufacturing teams to identify cost-saving opportunities and drive efficiency improvements throughout the production process.
*Oversee compliance with lease terms for property tenants while actively participating in contract negotiations for new and existing tenants, including managing dilapidation agreements at lease end.Coordinate the annual budgeting process for the manufacturing division by producing rolling forecasts and scenario analyses that support operational decision-making.
*Prepare board-level reports and presentations that deliver insightful commentary on financial performance for both manufacturing operations and property companies.
*Monitor inventory movements by analysing stock levels, obsolescence risks, valuation accuracy, and supporting periodic audits to optimise working capital requirements.
*Work closely with IT and operational teams to maintain ERP/accounting systems while identifying opportunities for process improvements within finance and manufacturing reporting.
*Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards, tax regulations, internal policies, and support external audit processes by resolving finance queries efficiently.
What We’re Looking For
*A qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with strong financial control experience.
*Exposure to project accounting is essential.
*Experience building or strengthening financial controls and processes.
*Proven ability to work hands-on while supporting strategic growth initiatives.
*A natural challenger who can confidently question operational teams and improve financial accuracy.
*Comfortable working in a growing business with evolving systems and structures.
What sets this company apart:
This organisation based in Birmingham stands out due to its unique structure, a diversified group encompassing both thriving industrial manufacturing operations and dynamic property businesses offering employees exposure to varied challenges rarely found elsewhere.
Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates