At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee finance operations and improve systems for multiple fast-growing businesses.
- Company: Join the ambitious Crusader Group, a specialist services business.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and 21 days holiday.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with excellent progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of building a £10M+ business and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: 5+ years finance experience and strong Excel skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are looking for a highly organised, commercially minded Finance Manager / Financial Controller to join the growing Crusader Group. You will oversee finance across multiple fast-growing businesses including:
- Crusader Fire & Security
- Crusader Energy
- Future group companies and acquisitions
This is not a basic accounts role. We need someone who can take ownership of finance operations, improve systems, tighten reporting, improve cash flow visibility, and provide commercial insight to support ambitious growth plans. The group has grown rapidly and we are now looking for someone who wants to help build a £10M+ business over the coming years.
The Role
You will be responsible for:
- Purchase ledger & supplier payments
- Sales ledger oversight & credit control reporting
- Payroll coordination and finance administration
- Bank reconciliations and cash management
- Weekly cash flow reporting
- Producing monthly management information
- Margin and job profitability reporting
- WIP, accruals and prepayments support
- Supporting budgeting and forecasting
- KPI dashboards and reporting to directors
- Improving finance processes and controls
- Supporting future acquisitions and integrations
- Working with external accountants and advisors
What We’re Looking For
You will ideally have:
- 5+ years finance/accounting experience
- Experience in SME or growing businesses
- Strong Excel and accounting software knowledge (Xero/QuickBooks/Sage etc.)
- Excellent organisation and attention to detail
- Commercial awareness – not just bookkeeping
- Confidence challenging processes and improving systems
- Experience in construction, service, engineering or trades businesses (preferred)
You’ll Fit In If You:
- Like fast-paced environments
- Want progression and responsibility
- Enjoy solving problems and improving systems
- Can take ownership rather than wait to be told what to do
- Want to help build something long term
Salary & Benefits
- £40,000–£45,000 depending on experience
- Progression opportunities as the group scales
- Performance-related bonus potential
- 21 days holiday + bank holidays
- Office based role in Benton
Location
Unit 15 Wesley Court Benton NE12 9BS
About Crusader Group
Crusader Group is a growing specialist services business operating across fire safety, security, energy and compliance services. We are ambitious, fast-growing and building for the long term.
Finance Manager / Financial Controller in Backworth employer: Crusader Fire and Security Ltd
Crusader Group is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and ambitious work culture, perfect for those looking to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment. With a focus on employee growth, the Finance Manager / Financial Controller role offers not only competitive salary and bonus potential but also opportunities for progression as the company scales. Located in Benton, soon moving to Killingworth, employees benefit from a supportive atmosphere that encourages innovation and ownership, making it an ideal place for professionals eager to contribute to building a £10M+ business.
Contact Details:
Crusader Fire and Security Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager / Financial Controller in Backworth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world and let them know you're on the hunt for a Finance Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial operations. Understand their growth plans and think about how your skills can help them achieve those goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the perfect fit for their ambitious journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in improving systems and cash flow visibility. Confidence is key, so rehearse your answers to common interview questions and be prepared to discuss your past successes.
✨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. Let’s build something great together!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager / Financial Controller in Backworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your finance management experience, especially in fast-paced environments, to show us you’re the right fit for our growing team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about finance and how you can contribute to our ambitious growth plans. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the role of Finance Manager / Financial Controller.
Showcase Your Commercial Awareness:We’re looking for someone who understands the bigger picture. In your application, mention any experiences where you’ve improved systems or processes that led to better financial outcomes. This will help us see your commercial mindset.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with Crusader Group.
How to prepare for a job interview at Crusader Fire and Security Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager or Financial Controller, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the role, such as cash flow management and profitability reporting. Be ready to discuss how you've improved these areas in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Systems Savvy
This role requires someone who can improve finance processes and controls. Prepare examples of how you've successfully implemented new systems or improved existing ones. Highlight your experience with accounting software like Xero or QuickBooks, as this will be crucial.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
The company is looking for someone who goes beyond basic bookkeeping. Be prepared to discuss how your financial insights have supported business growth in previous positions. Think about specific instances where your commercial awareness made a difference.
✨Emphasise Problem-Solving Skills
In a fast-paced environment, being proactive is key. Share examples of challenges you've faced in finance operations and how you tackled them. This will show that you can take ownership and drive improvements without waiting for direction.
