At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, manage reporting, and drive financial performance in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Established privately owned manufacturing group with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, autonomy in role, and direct exposure to senior leadership.
- Other info: Supportive culture with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the finance function and driving continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 5+ years experience in manufacturing or product-based environments.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
A long-established, privately owned manufacturing business is seeking a dynamic Financial Controller to take ownership of the finance function and play a pivotal role in driving operational and financial performance. This is a hands-on, commercially involved role suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced, product-led environment and enjoys being close to the numbers, the operations, and the decision-making.
The Opportunity
You’ll join a stable, growing business with a strong reputation in its sector. As Financial Controller, you will lead the day-to-day finance operations, strengthen financial controls, and provide insight and challenge needed to support the leadership team. This is an ideal role for someone ready to step up, take full ownership, and become a trusted partner to the Managing Director and wider business.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the finance function, including a small team
- Oversee all financial reporting: monthly management accounts, board packs, KPIs, and variance analysis
- Own budgeting, forecasting, and cash-flow management
- Strengthen financial controls, processes, and compliance
- Drive cost analysis, margin improvement, and operational efficiency
- Manage year-end processes, audit, and statutory accounts
- Oversee stock accounting, manufacturing costings, and product profitability
- Support the leadership team with commercial insight and scenario modelling
- Lead system improvements and ensure data accuracy across finance and operations
- Provide financial stewardship while supporting growth, investment, and operational decision-making
Requirements Experience & Background
- Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with a minimum of 5+ years PQE
- Strong experience in manufacturing, engineering, or product-based environments
- Proven track record of leading financial operations and improving processes
- Confident producing high-quality management information and board-level reporting
- Strong understanding of costings, stock, and manufacturing performance metrics
- Comfortable working in a hands-on, owner-managed business
- Experience managing or developing a small finance team
- Strong systems capability and advanced Excel skills
Personal Attributes
- Commercially minded with the confidence to challenge and influence
- Detail-driven, disciplined, and proactive
- Comfortable operating independently and taking full ownership
- Strong communicator who can translate financial data into clear business insight
- Thrives in a practical, operationally connected environment
Benefits What’s on Offer
- A high-impact role with real autonomy and influence
- Direct exposure to the senior leadership team
- Opportunity to shape the finance function and drive continuous improvement
- Stable, long-term environment with strong values and a supportive culture
- Salary of £70,000 - £80,000
Financial Controller in Northampton employer: Arch Law Limited
Contact Detail:
Arch Law Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company thoroughly. Understand their financial operations and challenges they face. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Financial Controller. Highlight your achievements in improving financial processes and driving operational efficiency – this is what will set you apart!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Financial Controller role. Highlight your experience in manufacturing and any leadership roles you've had, as we want to see how you can take ownership of our finance function.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this hands-on role. Share specific examples of how you've driven financial performance and improved processes in previous positions.
Showcase Your Numbers Skills: Since this role is all about being close to the numbers, make sure to highlight your advanced Excel skills and experience with financial reporting. We want to know how you’ve used data to influence decision-making in your past roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out on the chance to join our dynamic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arch Law Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to be comfortable with financial data. Brush up on key metrics related to budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management. Be ready to discuss how you've used these in past roles to drive operational efficiency.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a small finance team, so highlight your experience in leading teams. Prepare examples of how you've developed team members or improved processes. This will show that you can take ownership and lead effectively.
✨Understand the Business
Familiarise yourself with the manufacturing sector and the specific challenges it faces. Be prepared to discuss how your financial insights can support operational decision-making and improve profitability. This shows you're not just about numbers but also about business impact.
✨Prepare for Scenario Modelling Questions
Expect questions around scenario modelling and commercial insight. Think of examples where you've provided valuable insights that influenced business decisions. This will demonstrate your ability to translate financial data into actionable strategies.