Finance Manager

Reporting directly to the CFO, the Finance Manager will play a key role in managing the day-to-day financial operations of the business. You will oversee all aspects of financial reporting, controls, and compliance, while supporting strategic decision-making.

You'll manage a small, capable finance team ensuring accurate and timely reporting, effective internal controls, and continuous process improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Reporting & Controls
• Prepare monthly management accounts, balance sheet reconciliations, and supporting schedules.
• Lead the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes.
• Ensure compliance with UK GAAP and company policies.
• Maintain robust internal controls and improve financial procedures.
• Budgeting & Forecasting
• Assist the CFO in preparing annual budgets and rolling forecasts.
• Provide insightful variance analysis and performance commentary.
• Cash Flow & Working Capital Management
• Monitor daily cash flow and forecast short- and long-term liquidity needs.
• Optimise working capital through effective management of debtors, creditors, and inventory.
• Audit, Tax, and Compliance
• Coordinate annual audit with external auditors and prepare statutory accounts.
• Support tax compliance (VAT, corporation tax, etc.) and liaise with external advisors as required.
• Team Leadership & Development
• Supervise, mentor, and develop the Assistant Management Accountant and transactional finance team.
• Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Systems & Process Improvement
• Review and streamline financial systems and reporting processes.
• Support implementation and development of ERP or accounting system enhancements.

Candidate Profile

Essential:

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA ideally)
• Strong technical accounting knowledge and financial reporting skills.
• Proven experience in a similar Financial Accountant or Financial Controller role, ideally within manufacturing or distribution.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Proficient in Excel and ERP/accounting systems - Microsoft Dynamics
• Hands-on approach with attention to detail and accuracy.

Desirable:

• Experience in an SME environment.
• Prior experience improving processes and systems.
• Knowledge of costing and inventory management.

At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.

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