At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function and drive efficiencies in a growing import/export business.
- Company: Dynamic SME based in Manchester City Centre with a focus on international trading.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by improving financial systems and supporting business growth.
- Qualifications: CIMA/ACCA qualified or QBE with experience in finance management within an SME.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and enjoy a hands-on role in a thriving environment.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are exclusively partnering with a growing SME import/export business based in Manchester City Centre that is looking to recruit an experienced Finance Manager/Financial Controller to lead the finance function and work closely with the founders. Operating within an international trading environment with a bonded warehouse, the business imports and distributes products mainly across the UK and conditionally exports the imports internationally. This role will take full ownership of the finance function, providing both hands-on financial leadership and commercial insight to support continued growth. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on Financial Controller who enjoys improving systems, introducing automation where appropriate, and helping a growing business drive efficiencies and smarter financial decision-making.
THE FINANCIAL CONTROLLER / FINANCE MANAGER ROLE:
- Reporting directly to the Founders, taking ownership of the finance function and leading a small team.
- Managing and developing a team including AP, AR/Credit Control, Finance Coordinator and Import/Export Clerks.
- Producing monthly management accounts, including variance analysis and commentary.
- Leading budgeting, forecasting and cashflow management.
- Overseeing credit control and debtor management, personally handling escalated debtor issues.
- Managing banking relationships and lenders, including invoice discounting/asset-based finance facilities.
- Ensuring accurate import duty accruals, deferments and landed cost reporting.
- Monitoring freight forwarding costs, stock movements and working capital with operational teams.
- Managing HMRC compliance, including bonded warehouse oversight and annual audits.
- Reviewing systems, processes and reporting, driving efficiencies, automation and continuous improvement.
- Providing commercial insight to the founders to support better decision making and business performance.
THE PERSON:
- CIMA/ACCA Qualified, or Qualified by Experience (QBE), with proven experience as a Financial Controller, Finance Manager or Senior Management Accountant in an SME environment, with an understanding of import/export.
- Industry experience in Distribution, Logistics, Manufacturing, Retail or Wholesale would be advantageous, with stock/inventory accounting and operational finance.
- Strong experience producing Management Accounts, Budgeting, Forecasting and Cashflow Management.
- Exposure to invoice discounting or asset-based lending facilities.
- Strong oversight of credit control and debtor management, including handling escalations.
- Experience reviewing systems, reporting and processes to drive improvements and efficiencies.
- A commercial and proactive mindset with the ability to support business growth.
TO APPLY: Please send your CV via the advert for the Finance Manager/Financial Controller for immediate consideration.
Locations
Financial Controller - Import / Export in Cheshire, Warrington employer: Get Recruited (UK) Ltd
Contact Detail:
Get Recruited (UK) Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller - Import / Export in Cheshire, Warrington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those in import/export. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their financial processes and challenges in the import/export sector. This will help you showcase how you can add value right from the get-go.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just rely on job boards! Apply directly through our website for the Finance Manager/Financial Controller role. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance of standing out.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you email. It’s a simple gesture that keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your fit for the position!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller - Import / Export in Cheshire, Warrington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Financial Controller role. Highlight your experience in finance management, especially in import/export, to show us you’re the right fit.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your achievements! Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve improved systems or driven efficiencies in previous roles. We love seeing tangible results!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Keep it concise but engaging – we want to know what makes you tick!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s quick and easy, and ensures your application goes straight to us for immediate consideration!
How to prepare for a job interview at Get Recruited (UK) Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the import/export industry, such as cash flow management and variance analysis. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics to drive business decisions in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your experience in developing team members and improving processes. Discuss specific instances where your leadership made a tangible impact on the finance function.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the company's operations, especially their import/export processes. Research current trends in international trade and how they might affect the business. This will show that you're not just a numbers person but also understand the broader context of your role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, particularly around credit control and debtor management. Think of scenarios where you've had to handle escalated issues or improve systems. Prepare concise stories that illustrate your approach and the outcomes achieved.