At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee financial operations and support business growth in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Deakin & Francis, England's oldest manufacturing jeweller with a rich heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, pension scheme, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team and contribute to exciting retail expansions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a historic luxury brand while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in finance roles within SMEs.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Deakin & Francis Ltd - Birmingham Full‑Time | Office Based | 9am‑5pm
About Us
Founded in 1786, Deakin & Francis is England's oldest manufacturing jeweller, with a heritage spanning more than two centuries. Based in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, we design and manufacture luxury jewellery and accessories for clients across the UK and internationally. As a family‑owned business with ambitious growth plans, including retail expansion in Birmingham and continued development of our London presence, we are looking for a commercially minded and hands‑on Finance Director or Financial Controller to join our senior leadership team.
This is a varied role that goes far beyond finance. The successful candidate will play a key part in the day‑to‑day running of the business, working closely with the Managing Director and Owner, Henry Deakin.
The Role
Reporting directly to the MD and Owner, this position will oversee all financial operations of the business while also supporting broader operational, commercial, HR, and compliance functions. With an annual turnover of approximately £3m, the role would suit either an experienced Financial Controller ready to broaden their responsibilities or an established Finance Director looking for a dynamic SME environment where they can make a genuine impact. The role is primarily based at our Birmingham factory headquarters, while also overseeing financial operations connected to our London retail activities and upcoming Birmingham retail expansion.
Key Responsibilities
- Finance & Reporting
- Management of day‑to‑day financial operations
- Preparation of monthly management accounts and financial reporting
- Production of detailed board packs and business analysis
- Cashflow forecasting and budgeting
- VAT returns and statutory compliance
- Liaison with external accountants, auditors, banks, and advisors
- Oversight of payroll and financial controls
- Stock and manufacturing cost analysis
- Operational & Commercial Support
- Supporting the MD with day‑to‑day business operations
- Assisting with renewals and administration of insurance, private medical cover, subscriptions and supplier contracts, compliance‑related services
- Supporting process improvement and operational efficiencies
- Helping implement modern systems and technology solutions, including AI‑driven tools and automation
- HR & Compliance
- Supporting HR administration and employee processes
- Ensuring company compliance and governance standards are maintained
- Assisting with policies, procedures, and operational documentation
- Systems & Technology
- Managing and improving financial and operational systems
- Responsibility for stock management, controls, and reconciliation across Unleashed and Xero
- Margin analysis and product profitability reporting
- Credit control and supplier payment oversight
- Working with Xero, Unleashed, Excel
- Identifying opportunities for better reporting, automation, and smarter ways of working
About You
We are looking for someone who is commercially aware, highly organised, and comfortable operating in a fast‑moving SME environment.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Previous manufacturing experience
- Experience in a senior finance role within an SME business
- Strong management reporting and board pack preparation experience
- Excellent Excel skills
- Strong understanding of compliance and financial controls
- Tech savvy and confident adopting new systems and AI tools
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Hands‑on attitude with the ability to work across multiple areas of the business
Desirable
- Experience with Xero and Unleashed
- Retail or luxury goods experience
- Experience supporting HR or operational functions
- Family business or entrepreneurial business background
What We Offer
- Competitive salary depending on experience
- Discretionary performance‑related bonus
- Company pension scheme
- Private medical insurance
- Staff discount on products
- Opportunity to join one of Britain's most historic luxury brands
- A varied and influential role with direct access to senior leadership
- Dynamic and supportive team environment
- Opportunity to contribute to business growth and expansion
- Long‑term career development within a growing company
This is an opportunity for an ambitious finance professional to become an integral part of a growing British luxury brand with genuine influence across the business.
Financial Controller Or Financial Director in Willenhall employer: Deakin & Francis Ltd
Deakin & Francis Ltd, as England's oldest manufacturing jeweller, offers a unique opportunity for finance professionals to thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment. Located in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, employees benefit from a family-owned culture that prioritises growth, innovation, and employee development, alongside competitive salaries and performance-related bonuses. Joining our team means becoming part of a prestigious brand with a rich heritage, where your contributions directly impact the company's expansion and success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller Or Financial Director in Willenhall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend finance events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at Deakin & Francis. A personal connection can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research Deakin & Francis, their history, and their future plans. Be ready to discuss how your skills can help them achieve their ambitious growth goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on articulating your experience in financial operations and how it aligns with the role. The more comfortable you are talking about your achievements, the more confident you’ll feel during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest in the position and keep you top of mind as they make their decision. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller Or Financial Director in Willenhall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the job description. Highlight your financial expertise, especially in manufacturing and SME environments, to show us you're the right fit for Deakin & Francis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Don't forget to mention your hands-on approach and any relevant tech-savvy skills.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles. Whether it's improving financial processes or leading successful projects, we want to see how you've made a difference.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Deakin & Francis!
How to prepare for a job interview at Deakin & Francis Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
Before the interview, brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around cashflow forecasting and budgeting. Be ready to discuss how you've managed financial operations in previous roles, as this will show your understanding of the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Showcase Your Tech Savvy
Since the role involves working with systems like Xero and Unleashed, make sure you highlight your experience with these tools. If you’ve implemented any modern systems or AI-driven solutions in past positions, share those examples to demonstrate your ability to adapt and innovate.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Deakin & Francis is looking for someone who understands the commercial side of finance. Prepare to discuss how your financial decisions have positively impacted business operations and growth in previous roles. This will show that you can think beyond numbers and contribute to the overall success of the company.
✨Be Ready for a Hands-On Discussion
This role requires a hands-on attitude, so be prepared to talk about times when you've rolled up your sleeves to solve problems or improve processes. Share specific examples of how you've supported operational functions or worked closely with senior leadership to drive results.
