Finance Director / CFO - Freight Forwarding - Manchester

Finance Director / CFO - Freight Forwarding - Manchester

Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Corrigan Bentley

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead finance operations and ensure compliance while managing cash flow and profitability.
  • Company: Dynamic freight forwarding company in Manchester with a hands-on approach.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to shape financial strategy.
  • Other info: Onsite role with limited travel across the UK and Ireland.
  • Why this job: Join a fast-paced environment where your financial expertise drives real impact.
  • Qualifications: Proven experience in finance leadership and strong analytical skills.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Finance Director to join our senior management team at our Manchester office. This is a hands-on CFO role responsible for managing the full finance function of a freight forwarding business. The role combines strategic oversight with day-to-day financial operations, ensuring tight control of cash flow, profitability per shipment, and strong financial discipline across the business. You will work closely with operational and commercial teams, providing clear financial insight while remaining closely involved in the detail. This position is well suited to a commercially minded finance leader who thrives in a fast-paced, operational environment and enjoys balancing strategic influence with hands-on delivery.

Note: This role is based in our Manchester office and is onsite, with limited travel across UK and Ireland.

How you will contribute:

  • Lead the full finance function, delivering monthly management accounts, year-end reporting, and robust balance sheet control.
  • Oversee day-to-day finance operations including AP/AR, bank reconciliations, payroll, and monthly close/cut-offs.
  • Ensure full compliance with IFRS, VAT, PAYE, corporation tax, and statutory reporting requirements.
  • Actively manage cash flow and working capital.

Finance Director / CFO - Freight Forwarding - Manchester employer: Corrigan Bentley

Join a dynamic and forward-thinking team in Manchester, where we prioritise employee growth and development within a supportive work culture. As a Finance Director, you will not only lead the finance function but also play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of our freight forwarding business, all while enjoying competitive benefits and a collaborative environment that values your contributions.

Corrigan Bentley

Contact Details:

Corrigan Bentley Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Finance Director / CFO - Freight Forwarding - Manchester

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and freight forwarding 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 in the freight forwarding space. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets their business.

Tip Number 3

Showcase your hands-on experience! In interviews, share specific examples of how you've managed finance functions and improved cash flow in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to balance strategic oversight with day-to-day operations, which is key for this CFO role.

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 engage directly with us. Let’s get you that Finance Director position!

We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director / CFO - Freight Forwarding - Manchester

Financial Management
Cash Flow Management
Profitability Analysis
IFRS Compliance
VAT Knowledge
PAYE Understanding
Corporation Tax Knowledge

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Director role. Highlight your experience in managing finance functions, cash flow control, and any relevant achievements in freight forwarding or similar industries.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've balanced strategic oversight with hands-on delivery in previous positions, especially in fast-paced environments.

Showcase Your Financial Acumen:In your application, emphasise your knowledge of IFRS, VAT, and other compliance requirements. We want to see that you have a strong grasp of financial regulations and can ensure compliance across the business.

Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our Manchester office.

How to prepare for a job interview at Corrigan Bentley

Know Your Numbers

As a Finance Director, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to freight forwarding, such as cash flow management and profitability per shipment. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed these in previous roles.

Showcase Strategic Thinking

This role requires a balance of strategic oversight and hands-on delivery. Prepare examples of how you've influenced financial strategy while also being involved in day-to-day operations. Highlight your ability to provide clear financial insights to operational and commercial teams.

Understand Compliance Inside Out

Familiarise yourself with IFRS, VAT, PAYE, and other statutory reporting requirements. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve ensured compliance in past positions and how you would approach it in this new role. This shows you’re detail-oriented and understand the importance of financial discipline.

Cultural Fit Matters

Since this is a fast-paced environment, convey your adaptability and experience in similar settings. Research the company culture and be ready to explain how your values align with theirs. This will help you stand out as a candidate who not only has the skills but also fits well within their team.