At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management, oversee operations, and ensure compliance across our growing nursery business.
- Company: Join a dynamic £12m multi-site nursery business dedicated to children's welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy a flexible 4-day work week, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse culture that values merit and promotes equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while supporting sustainable growth.
- Qualifications: Proven finance management experience and strong knowledge of UK accounting standards required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
4 days per week, all year round.
About the Role
We are a growing £12m multi-site nursery business operating across 17 locations, and we are looking for an experienced Finance Manager to lead our financial management function. This is a pivotal role reporting directly to the Group CEO, supporting sustainable growth and ensuring robust financial controls across the business. If you are a detail-driven finance professional who thrives in a fast-paced, multi-site environment, this could be the perfect next step in your career.
What You'll Do
- Financial Management & Reporting
- Oversee day-to-day finance operations including accounts payable, receivable, bank reconciliations, and month-end close.
- Prepare monthly management accounts, variance analysis, and commentary for leadership.
- Develop annual budgets and rolling forecasts in collaboration with Operations and HR.
- Monitor cash flow and working capital; implement strategies to optimise liquidity.
- Ensure compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations, and statutory reporting.
- Payroll & Benefits
- Cross-check payroll accuracy and timeliness for a workforce of 300 staff, liaising with HR on changes and compliance.
- Systems & Process Improvement
- Maintain and improve finance systems including accounting software and procurement tools.
- Implement controls to reduce errors, fraud risk, and inefficiencies.
- Support digital transformation initiatives across finance and procurement.
- Compliance & Audit
- Prepare for and manage external audits; ensure timely filing of statutory accounts.
- Maintain compliance with childcare sector regulations impacting finance, including funding and grants.
- Leadership & Business Partnering
- Provide financial insights to support strategic decisions and operational performance.
- Partner with Operations and HR to manage labour costs, occupancy forecasting, and capital projects.
What We're Looking For
Essential
- Proven experience in finance management within an SME or multi-site environment.
- Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards and payroll processes.
- Advanced Excel and financial modelling skills.
- Familiarity with accounting software such as Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks.
- Excellent analytical, organisational, and communication skills.
Desirable
- Qualified or part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA).
- Experience in childcare, education, hospitality, or a similarly regulated sector.
- Knowledge of government funding streams for early years education.
Complete Childcare is committed to providing the best possible care to its children and safeguarding and promoting welfare of young children. All applicants will be required to complete an application form, and any offers of employment are conditional on the receipt of 2 satisfactory references, a satisfactory right to work check and an enhanced DBS check. Complete Childcare is fully committed to providing equal opportunities for all employees, workers and job applicants. The Company aims to create a culture that encourages and values diversity and that appoints, rewards and promotes staff based on merit.
Finance Manager in Reading employer: Complete Childcare
Complete Childcare is an exceptional employer for those passionate about early years education, offering a nurturing environment at Boot Farm Nursery where staff feel valued and supported. With fully funded professional qualifications, ongoing training, and a strong focus on career development, employees can thrive in their roles while enjoying competitive salaries, generous leave, and unique benefits like childcare discounts and access to a Virtual GP service. Join our welcoming team and embark on a rewarding journey in childcare, where your contributions make a real difference in children's lives.
