Financial Controller in Blackwood

Head4Talent is working exclusively for a SME FMCG business based in Blackwood. An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Financial Controller to join the business at an exciting stage in their journey.

Role Overview

The successful candidate will take full ownership of the finance function, working closely with the Managing Director and operational teams to control costs, improve margins, and support day-to-day decision-making. The role combines operational finance, reporting, and transactional oversight, and is suited to someone comfortable being both strategic and in the detail.

Key Responsibilities

• Day-to-Day Finance & Control
  • Own the full finance function, including purchase ledger, sales ledger, payroll oversight, and bank reconciliations.
  • Mentor and set KPIs for the financial team.
  • Prepare accurate monthly management accounts, including detailed P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow.
  • Maintain the general ledger and ensure timely posting and reconciliation of all transactions.
  • Manage VAT returns, payroll journals, and statutory submissions.
• Manufacturing Finance & Cost Control
  • Build, maintain, and actively manage product costings (ingredients, packaging, labour, overheads).
  • Monitor yields, waste, and labour efficiency, working directly with production managers to address variances.
  • Track and analyse manufacturing variances and explain performance in clear, practical terms.
  • Support pricing decisions and margin analysis for customers, contracts, and new products.
• Stock, Cash Flow & Working Capital
  • Take ownership of stock valuation, stock counts, and reconciliation between physical stock and the system.
  • Monitor slow-moving and obsolete stock and ensure appropriate provisions.
  • Produce short and medium-term cash flow forecasts.
  • Actively manage working capital, including supplier payments and credit control.
• Operational & Commercial Support
  • Work closely with production, procurement, and sales teams to improve financial awareness and discipline.
  • Provide weekly and monthly financial insights to the MD to support operational decisions.
  • Support new product development by assessing costings, margins, and financial viability.
  • Assist with customer and supplier negotiations where financial input is required.
• Compliance, Controls & Year-End
  • Maintain strong but practical financial controls appropriate for an SME environment.
  • Prepare year-end accounts and act as the main contact for external accountants and auditors.
  • Ensure compliance with VAT, corporation tax, and other statutory requirements.
  • Support bank reporting and lender requirements as needed.
• Systems & Process Improvement
  • Take ownership of finance systems and spreadsheets (ERP / accounting software / stock systems).
  • ERP implementation: Work with the operational team to assist in the implementation of new MRP software, ensuring accurate adoption of the software into the accounting environment.
  • Improve reporting, processes, and controls as the business grows.
  • Introduce simple, effective financial processes without adding unnecessary complexity.

Skills & Experience

• Qualified (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience.
• Strong experience in a manufacturing environment (food manufacturing highly desirable).
• Hands-on experience producing management accounts and managing day-to-day finance.
• Solid understanding of stock, costings, and manufacturing variances.
• Advanced Excel skills and confidence working with imperfect systems.
• Experience improving or implementing finance systems and processes.
• Capacity to report to outside shareholders.