Strategic Finance Director - Luxury Jewellery SME in Willenhall

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.