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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function and drive performance in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Ambitious, private equity backed manufacturing business in Manchester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a leadership team and shape the future of a growing company.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with manufacturing experience and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Exciting exposure to M&A activity and investor relations.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 100000 £ per year.
Ready to take the next step in your Finance leadership career? An ambitious, private equity backed manufacturing business is looking to appoint a Finance Director to work closely with the CEO and investors during an exciting phase of growth and development. This role offers a fantastic opportunity for a high calibre Financial Controller or Head of Finance looking to step up into their first FD role, as well as an established Finance Director seeking their second leadership position within a dynamic, growth focused business.
Why this role stands out
This is not a back office reporting role. You will be a key member of the leadership team, working closely with senior stakeholders to drive performance, shape strategy and support the future growth of the business. Operating within a fast paced manufacturing environment, finance plays a critical role in understanding margins, managing stock and supporting operational decision making.
You will have the opportunity to:
- Play a central role within the senior leadership team
- Work directly with experienced private equity investors and an ambitious CEO
- Help shape the future direction and growth strategy of the business
- Gain exposure to potential M&A activity and acquisitions
- Develop and strengthen the finance function as the business continues to scale
The Role
As Finance Director you will lead the finance function while partnering closely with commercial and operational teams across the organisation. You will bring financial clarity, commercial insight and strong governance while helping the business maximise performance. Key responsibilities will include:
- Leading the finance function and overall financial governance of the business
- Delivering clear, insightful management information to the leadership team and investors
- Owning forecasting, budgeting and financial modelling
- Working closely with operational teams to deliver strong margin analysis and performance insight
- Managing stock accounting including WIP and finished goods, ensuring strong cost visibility and control
- Supporting pricing decisions, operational efficiency and profitability analysis
- Playing a key role in future M&A activity, due diligence and integration
- Developing and mentoring members of the finance team
About You
You will be a qualified accountant with a strong background in manufacturing. You may currently be a Financial Controller or Head of Finance ready to step into your first FD role, or an existing Finance Director looking for your second leadership position within a growing, PE backed business. You will bring:
- Experience within a manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of stock accounting, WIP and margin analysis
- Exposure to private equity backed businesses
- Experience supporting M&A activity would be highly beneficial
- A dynamic, commercially minded leadership style
The Opportunity
This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing, investor backed manufacturing business where finance plays a central role in driving performance and shaping the future of the organisation. For the right person, it offers genuine influence, exposure to investors and the chance to play a key role in the next stage of the company's journey.
Finance Director - Manufacturing in Manchester employer: Headstar
Contact Detail:
Headstar Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director - Manufacturing in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their financial performance, recent news, and their position in the manufacturing sector. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Finance Director. Highlight your achievements in financial governance and operational efficiency, and don’t forget to mention any M&A experience you have.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director - Manufacturing in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Finance Director role. Highlight your achievements in manufacturing finance, stock accounting, and any M&A experience to catch our eye!
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 your passion for finance leadership and how you can contribute to our growth strategy.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We want to see your dynamic, commercially minded leadership style in action. Include examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past, especially in fast-paced environments like manufacturing.
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 this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Headstar
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the manufacturing sector, such as margin analysis and stock accounting. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these metrics to drive performance in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role is all about leadership, so think about how you can convey your dynamic, commercially minded approach. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, mentored staff, and collaborated with senior stakeholders to achieve business goals.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the company’s current position in the market, especially regarding private equity backing and growth strategies. Being able to discuss their recent developments or challenges will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their future.
✨Prepare for M&A Discussions
Since exposure to M&A activity is beneficial for this role, be ready to talk about any relevant experience you have. Think about how you've supported due diligence or integration processes in the past, and be prepared to share insights on how you can add value in this area.