Job Description
Finance Manager
Overview
We are exclusively partnering with a growing, privately-owned SME within the manufacturing sector to recruit a full-time Finance Manager.
This is a pivotal hire at an exciting time for the business. Following significant investment and a period of reset, the company is now entering a new phase of growth, operational improvement, and systems transformation.
This role offers the opportunity to take real ownership of the finance function, improve processes, and play a key role in shaping how finance supports the wider business.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will lead the day-to-day finance function while acting as a key member of the senior leadership team.
This is not a “sit behind a desk” finance role — you’ll be visible across the business, working closely with operations, sales, and leadership to understand performance, challenge decisions, and drive improvements.
You will also work closely with Group Finance as part of a wider group structure, gaining exposure to broader reporting and strategic initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Full ownership of the day-to-day finance function
- Line management of a Finance Assistant
- Production of monthly management accounts (including a second group entity)
- Delivering insightful reporting to the Senior Leadership Team and Board
- Cashflow management, forecasting, and budgeting
- Supporting year-end and audit processes
- VAT returns and statutory compliance
- Oversight of outsourced payroll
- Expense and company card management
- Cost analysis and identifying efficiency opportunities
- Supporting systems implementation
- Driving improvements in processes, controls, and reporting
- Ad hoc analysis and project work
Business Context
- SME environment with a lean, collaborative culture
- Currently in a turnaround and growth phase, with increasing sales momentum
- Recent investment in operations and infrastructure
- Transitioning finance systems
- Part of a wider group (c. £30m turnover), with increasing standardisation and reporting alignment
This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys building, improving, and making a tangible difference.
Candidate Profile
Essential
- Qualified, part-qualified, or QBE
- Experience in a hands-on finance role within an SME or similar environment
- Strong technical accounting and reporting capability
- High attention to detail and organisation
- Ability to balance hands-on delivery with commercial insight
Desirable
- Background in manufacturing or product-based businesses
- Experience with system implementations or improvements
- Exposure to Sage or similar ERP systems
Personal Attributes
- Proactive, hands-on approach with a willingness to “get stuck in”
- Comfortable working across departments and building relationships
- Commercially aware and confident influencing decision-making
- Adaptable and comfortable working in an evolving environment
- Ambitious and keen to develop within a growing group structure
Salary
- £40,000 – £50,000 (depending on experience)
Location
- Buckingham (office-based)
