At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function, managing reporting, cash flow, and compliance in a growing construction firm.
- Company: Established family-owned construction subcontractor with a strong North West presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private health insurance, 22 days leave plus birthday off, and discretionary bonus.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression to Financial Controller or Head of Finance.
- Why this job: Shape financial strategies and support business growth in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years finance experience, ideally in construction, with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 55000 £ per year.
Location: North West, Oldham | Full time, permanent | 4 days in the office, 1 WFH
Salary: £40,000 - £55,000 DOE + car allowance
Benefits:
- Death in Service
- Private Health Insurance
- Group Income Protection
- MediCash Cash Plan
- 22 days annual leave, plus your birthday off
- Discretionary Bonus
About the company
My client is a well-established, second-generation, family-owned construction subcontractor operating nationwide, with a strong presence across the North West. They deliver work across a range of commercial and residential projects, partnering with main contractors on schemes of varying scale and complexity. The company has strong, people-focused values and a reputation for doing things the right way. The business is entering an exciting period of growth as it continues to expand its operations and strengthen its internal functions.
What you'll be doing as a Finance Manager
Reporting to the Managing Director, you'll take ownership of the finance function and act as a trusted partner to the leadership team. You'll lead on financial control, reporting, cash flow and compliance, while supporting the business through its next phase of growth.
Key responsibilities include:
- Monthly management accounts: P&L, balance sheet, cash flow, variance analysis and commentary
- Financial control: accurate records, month-end and year-end close, statutory accounts and audit coordination
- Cash flow & working capital: forecasting, liquidity, debtor/creditor management, invoicing, collections and supplier payments
- Project cost management: applications for payment, valuations, retentions, WIP and revenue recognition
- Budgeting & forecasting: annual budgets, rolling forecasts, modelling and scenario analysis
- Compliance: VAT, HMRC reporting, CIS, CITB Levy, payroll, insurance preparation and audit readiness
- Systems & controls: maintaining and improving financial controls and finance systems
- Supplier & customer relationships: managing key relationships and ensuring aligned communication
- Leadership: managing and developing the Finance Assistant
This is a hands-on, varied role where you'll have real influence, visibility and the chance to shape how finance supports the wider business.
What you'll bring to the Finance Manager role
You'll be an experienced finance professional with the confidence, credibility and technical strength to lead a busy SME finance function. You will already have:
- 5+ years experience in a similar finance role, ideally within an SME and preferably within construction
- Strong experience producing full management accounts and financial reporting
- Hands-on experience with budgeting, forecasting and cash flow management
- Working knowledge of construction-specific finance (CIS, job costing, retentions, labour-related costs, WIP)
- Experience in credit control and supplier negotiations
- Strong IT skills, particularly Excel, and experience with finance systems
- AAT qualification or working towards ACCA/CIMA
- Experience managing or developing others
Plus:
- Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail
- Strong communication skills with both financial and non-financial colleagues
- A proactive, solutions-focused mindset
- High levels of integrity, confidentiality and professionalism
- The ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently
What's in this Finance Manager role for you?
- A role with real ownership across financial control, reporting, cash flow and compliance
- Close partnership with the Managing Director and involvement in strategic decision-making
- Support from an outsourced Finance Director during onboarding
- A stable, friendly, values-driven culture where your contribution is recognised
- The opportunity to improve systems, processes and controls
- Investment in your development and long-term progression
- A clear pathway to Financial Controller or Head of Finance level
Who this Finance Manager role could suit
Finance Manager | Management Accountant | Senior Accountant | Company Accountant | Finance Lead | Assistant Financial Controller | Financial Controller (junior/step-up) | Project Accountant (construction) | Cost Accountant (construction)
Please note: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is not available.
Finance Manager in Manchester employer: Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd
Join a well-established, family-owned construction subcontractor in Oldham, where you will thrive in a supportive and values-driven culture. With a strong focus on employee development and a clear pathway for progression, this role as Finance Manager offers the chance to make a significant impact while enjoying competitive benefits, including private health insurance and a discretionary bonus. Experience a collaborative work environment that prioritises your contributions and fosters growth during an exciting period of expansion.
Contact Details:
Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Manchester
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Caroline Salt Recruitment Ltd employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
