At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, ensuring accurate reporting and insightful analysis to drive business performance.
- Company: Dynamic company offering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, personal development support, extra leave for special occasions, and discounts on various services.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for career growth and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Step into a high-impact role and make a real difference in financial decision-making.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant or finalist with strong finance and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Cardiff or Bicester (Hybrid - 3 days in office)
Contract: 6-month fixed-term contract (parental leave cover)
Reporting: CFO
Overview
We are looking for an experienced, hands-on finance manager to join our team on a 6-month fixed-term contract to provide parental leave cover. This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a broad, high-impact finance role, working closely with the CFO and partnering across the business to support both operational excellence and strategic decision-making. As interim finance manager, you will lead the day-to-day operational finance function while ensuring accurate reporting, robust controls, and insightful financial analysis to support business performance. You’ll take ownership of core finance activities, from management accounts and payroll through to forecasting and business partnering, while leading a small team and contributing to wider organisational goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the smooth running of the finance function, ensuring all transactions are processed accurately and on time
- Lead the preparation of monthly management accounts and ensure high-quality financial reporting
- Maintain compliance with PAYE, VAT, and statutory requirements, including filings
- Support treasury activities, including cash flow and currency risk management
- Strengthen internal controls, audit processes, and financial procedures
- Deliver timely, insightful financial analysis to support business decisions
- Develop and maintain forecasts and financial models aligned to strategic plans
- Produce clear and impactful management information packs
- Support pricing, project accounting, and performance analysis
- Work collaboratively with project leads, budget holders, and senior stakeholders
- Provide financial insight to drive performance, profitability, and growth
- Translate financial data into clear, actionable recommendations for non-finance colleagues
- Support the wider team with guidance on finance processes and best practices
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement and learning within the finance function
Requirements
- Qualified accountant or finalist (CIMA, ACCA)
- Experience in an SME, consultancy, or professional services environment
- Strong technical knowledge across management accounts, payroll, and compliance
- A proven ability to partner with non-financial stakeholders and influence decisions
- Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, approachable style
- Confidence balancing strategic thinking with operational detail
Preferred Experience
- Prior experience as a finance manager in a founder-led, or PE-backed, SME business
Benefits
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- A learning culture focused on personal development and supported by study bursaries
- Workplace pension scheme
- Range of high street, supermarket, restaurant, gym membership, holiday and entertainment discounts via Pluxee
- Employee assistance programme
- Employees are given an additional day of leave for: their wedding and moving house
- Annual leave purchase scheme of up to 10 additional days' leave per year
Interim Finance Manager in Cardiff employer: Gofractional
Join a dynamic and supportive team as an Interim Finance Manager in Cardiff or Bicester, where you will play a pivotal role in driving financial excellence while enjoying a hybrid work model. Our company fosters a culture of continuous learning and personal development, offering competitive benefits, including additional leave for special occasions and a range of discounts to enhance your work-life balance. With opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with senior stakeholders, this role is perfect for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in a thriving environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Finance Manager in Cardiff
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance industry! Attend local meetups, webinars, or even just grab a coffee with someone who’s already in the role you want. Building relationships can open doors that job applications alone can't.
✨Ace the Interview
When you land that interview, be ready to showcase your skills and experience. Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in finance before, and don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the company’s financial strategies. Show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but a partner in their success!
✨Follow Up
After your interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a simple gesture that keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through our site can sometimes give you an edge, as we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our brand. Let’s get you that interim finance manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Finance Manager in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Interim Finance Manager role. Highlight your experience in finance management, especially in areas like management accounts and compliance. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've partnered with non-financial stakeholders and influenced decisions in your previous roles. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your technical knowledge in your application. Mention your qualifications (like CIMA or ACCA) and any relevant experience in payroll, VAT, and financial reporting. We’re keen on seeing your expertise in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy – just a few clicks and you’re done!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gofractional
✨Know Your Numbers
As an interim finance manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you can hit the ground running and contribute to strategic decision-making.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a small team, so it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, fostered collaboration, and driven performance. This will reassure them that you can maintain operational excellence.
✨Understand the Business Context
Research the company and its industry thoroughly. Be prepared to discuss how your financial insights can support their specific business goals. This demonstrates your ability to partner with non-financial stakeholders and influence decisions effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in finance roles and how you overcame them. This will showcase your ability to deliver timely, insightful financial analysis under pressure.
