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- Tasks: Take charge of accounts, drive process improvements, and report on manufacturing performance.
- Company: Established SME in advanced engineering with a focus on quality and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £60,000, flexible working, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by modernising processes and building a strong finance function.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing finance and strong attention to detail required.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team where your contributions are recognised and valued.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
This SME manufacturing business is a long-established advanced engineering business that manufactures on site for a diverse mix of customers. With a solid heritage and a reputation built on quality and technical capability, the company operates a modern manufacturing facility equipped with specialist machinery and automated production processes. They are continuously investing in technology, skills, and innovation to support ongoing growth and maintain their position as a trusted engineering partner.
About the role: This SME Finance Manager job will report directly to the Managing Director and take full ownership of the accounts (P&L production, balance sheet recs, analysis and commentary, budgets, forecasts, cashflow, VAT, year end etc) driving process improvements as you go ensuring accuracy in the figures. Working within a small, supportive finance team, you will also be significantly involved in the operational side of the business. Another part of this position will be reporting on manufacturing performance (job costing, materials usage, labour efficiency, and overhead absorption etc) as well as maintaining accurate standard and actual costing. You will also take responsibility for stock-related finance activity, including valuations, investigating variances, and contributing to improvement initiatives that strengthen stock control and overall financial accuracy. In this position, you will have the full autonomy to drive positive change, modernise processes, and build your own strong finance function. You'll be able to see the results of your work quickly as there are plenty of 'wins' to be had and you'll be recognised accordingly.
The Requirements: The accounts are in need of some TLC and so you must have strong attention to detail, and enjoy digging into the detail, sweating the small stuff, to ensure accuracy and maintain control. You must have experience in manufacturing specifically reviewing margins and product profitability, supporting continuous improvement with costing processes, and have an in depth knowledge of accounting for stock. Experience in an SME environment is essential, as you must be prepared to get 'stuck in' and foster a true team culture where everyone supports one another no matter the task. Ideally you will be qualified, but QBE with AAT is also considered.
Benefits: This position will pay up to £60,000 for the right candidate. Benefits are advanced and you'll be joining an incredibly supportive business where flexibility and family is at the heart.
Finance Manager employer: Hawthorn One
Contact Detail:
Hawthorn One Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and innovations. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around manufacturing finance and process improvements. Keep it concise but impactful – they want to see your passion and expertise.
✨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 that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Finance Manager role. Highlight your experience in manufacturing finance, especially around margins and product profitability. We want to see how you can bring your skills to our team!
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 driven process improvements and maintained accuracy in previous positions. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: Since the accounts need some TLC, make sure to emphasise your strong attention to detail in both your CV and cover letter. We want to know how you dig into the details and ensure accuracy in financial reporting.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow instructions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawthorn One
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial analysis. Brush up on key metrics like P&L statements, cash flow, and budgeting. Be ready to discuss how you've improved financial processes in previous roles, as this will show your potential employer that you can drive positive change.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
This role requires a keen eye for detail, so prepare examples of how you've ensured accuracy in financial reporting. Think about times when your attention to detail has led to significant improvements or cost savings. This will highlight your ability to maintain control over finances and support the company's growth.
✨Understand the Manufacturing Context
Since the company operates in manufacturing, it's crucial to understand the specific financial challenges they face. Familiarise yourself with job costing, materials usage, and labour efficiency. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these topics will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Emphasise Team Culture
The company values a supportive team environment, so be prepared to discuss how you've fostered collaboration in past roles. Share examples of how you've worked closely with colleagues to achieve common goals, especially in an SME setting where teamwork is essential for success.