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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function, manage costs, and support strategic decisions in a dynamic SME.
- Company: Join a growing FMCG business in Blackwood with a collaborative team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to shape financial strategies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial operations and drive growth in an exciting environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified finance professional with experience in manufacturing and strong Excel skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for career advancement and involvement in ERP implementation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Head4Talent is working exclusively for a SME FMCG business based in Blackwood. An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Financial Controller to join the business at an exciting stage in their journey.
Role Overview
The successful candidate will take full ownership of the finance function, working closely with the Managing Director and operational teams to control costs, improve margins, and support day-to-day decision-making. The role combines operational finance, reporting, and transactional oversight, and is suited to someone comfortable being both strategic and in the detail.
Key Responsibilities
- Day-to-Day Finance & Control
- Own the full finance function, including purchase ledger, sales ledger, payroll oversight, and bank reconciliations.
- Mentor and set KPIs for the financial team.
- Prepare accurate monthly management accounts, including detailed P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow.
- Maintain the general ledger and ensure timely posting and reconciliation of all transactions.
- Manage VAT returns, payroll journals, and statutory submissions.
- Manufacturing Finance & Cost Control
- Build, maintain, and actively manage product costings (ingredients, packaging, labour, overheads).
- Monitor yields, waste, and labour efficiency, working directly with production managers to address variances.
- Track and analyse manufacturing variances and explain performance in clear, practical terms.
- Support pricing decisions and margin analysis for customers, contracts, and new products.
- Stock, Cash Flow & Working Capital
- Take ownership of stock valuation, stock counts, and reconciliation between physical stock and the system.
- Monitor slow-moving and obsolete stock and ensure appropriate provisions.
- Produce short and medium-term cash flow forecasts.
- Actively manage working capital, including supplier payments and credit control.
- Operational & Commercial Support
- Work closely with production, procurement, and sales teams to improve financial awareness and discipline.
- Provide weekly and monthly financial insights to the MD to support operational decisions.
- Support new product development by assessing costings, margins, and financial viability.
- Assist with customer and supplier negotiations where financial input is required.
- Compliance, Controls & Year-End
- Maintain strong but practical financial controls appropriate for an SME environment.
- Prepare year-end accounts and act as the main contact for external accountants and auditors.
- Ensure compliance with VAT, corporation tax, and other statutory requirements.
- Support bank reporting and lender requirements as needed.
- Systems & Process Improvement
- Take ownership of finance systems and spreadsheets (ERP / accounting software / stock systems).
- Work with the operational team to assist in the implementation of new MRP software, ensuring accurate adoption of the software into the accounting environment.
- Improve reporting, processes, and controls as the business grows.
- Introduce simple, effective financial processes without adding unnecessary complexity.
Skills & Experience
- Qualified (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience.
- Strong experience in a manufacturing environment (food manufacturing highly desirable).
- Hands-on experience producing management accounts and managing day-to-day finance.
- Solid understanding of stock, costings, and manufacturing variances.
- Advanced Excel skills and confidence working with imperfect systems.
- Experience improving or implementing finance systems and processes.
- Capacity to report to outside shareholders.
Locations
Financial Controller in Blackwood, Wales employer: Head 4 Talent
Contact Detail:
Head 4 Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Blackwood, Wales
✨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 and its financial practices. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in cost control and financial reporting. Show them you’re not just a fit on paper but also in practice!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to convey your passion for finance and your hands-on experience in manufacturing. Keep it concise and focus on how you can add value to their team. Remember, confidence is key!
✨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 are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Financial Controller role!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in Blackwood, Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Financial Controller. Highlight your experience in managing finance functions, especially in a manufacturing environment, and don’t forget to showcase your advanced Excel skills!
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. Mention specific experiences that align with the key responsibilities, like cost control and financial reporting.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on achievements rather than just duties. Did you improve margins or streamline processes? Quantify your successes to make a stronger impact!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Head 4 Talent
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial metrics. Brush up on key figures like P&L, balance sheets, and cash flow forecasts. Be ready to discuss how you've used these numbers to drive decisions in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
This role requires a blend of strategic thinking and attention to detail. Prepare examples of how you've balanced both in past positions. Think about times when you’ve improved margins or controlled costs and be ready to share those stories.
✨Understand the Business
Research the SME FMCG sector and the specific challenges it faces. Familiarise yourself with trends in food manufacturing, stock management, and cost control. This will help you speak knowledgeably about how you can contribute to their journey.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to face scenario-based questions during the interview. Think about how you would handle issues like slow-moving stock or variances in manufacturing costs. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your thought process clearly.
