Finance Lead

Autocut is the UK's leading specialist dealer in autonomous mowing solutions and a trusted partner of some of the country's most prestigious customers.

As part of the Husqvarna Group, Autocut operates with its own distinct identity, entrepreneurial culture, and operational independence while benefiting from the strength and global reputation of one of the world's most recognised outdoor power equipment manufacturers.

As demand for autonomous solutions continues to accelerate, Autocut has ambitious plans to expand its market presence, customer base, and commercial performance over the next five years.

This creates an exciting opportunity for a commercially astute and operationally focused General Manager to lead a market leading business and shape its future success.

We're a Totnes based business looking for a motivated and enthusiastic person to join our growing team.

Key Responsibilities

• Business Integration
• Lead the finance division of Autocut.
• Standardise financial processes, controls and reporting.
• Support change management and collaborate with stakeholders across both businesses.
• Business Performance & Commercial Support
• Support delivery of business KPIs through financial insight and reporting.
• Provide financial analysis to support business decision making.
• Identify opportunities to improve profitability and operational efficiency.
• Work with managers to improve business performance and support continuous improvement.
• Partner with managers to challenge costs, improve margins and support business growth.
• Coordinate monthly close activities, including preparation and reconciliation of accruals, prepayments and provisions.
• Prepare monthly management accounts and shareholder reporting within agreed deadlines.
• Assist with the annual budgeting and forecasting process.
• Maintain accurate accounting records and perform balance sheet reconciliations.
• Oversee fixed assets, leased assets and inventory accounting, ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards.
• Prepare statutory accounts and support the annual external audit by providing required documentation and responding to audit queries.
• Cash Management
• Prepare rolling 12-month cash flow forecasts.
• Drive cash collection activities to optimise cash flow and working capital, working closely with internal stakeholders to improve debtor performance and minimise aged debt.

Process cash transactions and maintain accurate debtor and creditor ledgers.

• Authorise supplier, payroll and ad hoc payments.
• Payroll
• Oversee the monthly payroll process managed by the external payroll provider/bookkeeper.
• Review and approve payroll prior to payment.
• VAT & Compliance
• Responsible for VAT and tax obligations.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with VAT legislation and identify opportunities to improve processes and controls.
• Accounts Payable
• Process supplier invoices accurately and efficiently.
• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Skills & Experience

• AAT, CIMA, ACCA or ACA qualified, or qualified by experience.
• Previous experience in a broad finance role with responsibility for month‑end reporting and financial controls.
• Experience supporting business acquisitions, finance integrations or systems implementations would be highly advantageous.
• Experience with Xero is desirable.
• Strong understanding of UK accounting standards and VAT compliance.
• Excellent analytical, organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast‑paced environment.
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