Finance Manager

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 * Confident communicator with the ability to influence at all levels. * Hands-on, proactive, and solution-focused * Able to work effectively to tight deadlines. * Continuous improvement mindset Why Join? * Salary up to £70,000 + Pension, 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays * 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 and the chance to shape and enhance systems, controls, and processes in a growing business