At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance function, drive budgeting, and support business transformation.
- Company: Dynamic manufacturing business undergoing significant change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, private healthcare, and life assurance.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression towards Financial Controller level.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a transforming business and influence strategic decisions.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 5-10 years' experience in change environments.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 75000 £ per year.
£65,000 - £75,000 + Pension + Private Healthcare + Life Assurance, Southampton, Future Financial Controller Opportunity.
Are you a qualified accountant who thrives in businesses undergoing change rather than steady-state environments? Do you enjoy influencing decisions, improving performance, challenging the status quo and helping leadership teams navigate transformation?
Hays are partnering with a manufacturing business that has recently completed a significant carve-out and transition from its former US parent company. Now operating as a standalone business, the organisation is entering the next phase of its journey, focused on driving profitability, embedding commercial discipline and delivering a successful turnaround strategy over the coming years.
This is a rare opportunity for a commercially minded Finance Manager to become a key member of the leadership team and play a pivotal role in helping shape the future direction of the business.
The Opportunity
Reporting directly to the Finance Director, you will lead the day-to-day finance function whilst acting as a trusted business partner to operational leaders across the organisation. This is not a role for someone looking to maintain the status quo. The business is evolving and requires a finance leader who enjoys challenge, can influence stakeholders, and is comfortable operating within an environment where priorities change and continuous improvement is expected.
As part of the leadership team's long-term plan, you will help support the business through its transformation journey and contribute towards preparing the organisation for a potential future sale. You will also lead and develop a small finance team, taking responsibility for a Management Accountant and two Accounts Assistant colleagues.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead monthly management accounts and financial reporting processes
- Drive budgeting, forecasting and rolling cash flow planning
- Manage working capital, banking relationships and invoice discounting facilities
- Ensure robust financial controls and balance sheet integrity
- Oversee UK and international VAT compliance, statutory reporting and HMRC obligations
- Business partner with operational and departmental leaders to improve decision-making
- Support investment appraisals, business cases and transformation initiatives
- Analyse financial and operational performance, identifying risks and opportunities
- Lead, mentor and develop members of the finance team
- Contribute to strategic planning and long-term value creation initiatives
What We're Looking For
We are keen to speak with ambitious qualified accountants (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) who possess approximately 5-10 years' post-qualification experience. Most importantly, you'll have experience operating within environments that have experienced significant change, transformation, turnaround, integration, restructuring or growth.
You may currently be:
- A Finance Manager seeking a broader leadership role
- A Senior Management Accountant ready for your first Finance Manager position
- An ambitious Financial Controller looking for a more transformative challenge
You'll ideally bring:
- Strong financial control and management reporting experience
- Exposure to forecasting, business planning and cash flow management
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills
- A hands-on, resilient and commercially minded approach
- Experience improving processes, controls or business performance
- The confidence to challenge, debate and drive positive change
Manufacturing experience would be advantageous but is not essential. The organisation is more interested in attitude, adaptability and the ability to learn than direct sector experience. Previous private equity experience is also not required.
Why Join?
- Genuine opportunity to shape the future of a business in transformation
- Direct exposure to an experienced Finance Director and leadership team
- Clear progression potential towards Financial Controller level
- Significant involvement in strategic decision-making and commercial projects
- Opportunity to leave a visible and lasting impact on business performance
- Join a business where finance is expected to influence decisions rather than simply report on them
Package
- £65,000 - £75,000 salary
- 6% employer pension contribution
- Private medical insurance
- Life assurance
- Hybrid flexibility is considered following the onboarding period (1-2 days WFH)
This role is primarily site based in Hythe, Southampton, and applicants should be comfortable with a regular on-site presence.
If you're looking for a role where you can help drive business transformation, influence strategic decisions and accelerate your career development, we'd be delighted to hear from you. If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Finance Manager in Hampshire employer: Jobiqo
Bromley Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a generous benefits package, including a local government pension scheme and unique discounts, the Council prioritises employee well-being and career growth. Located in the vibrant Bromley Civic Centre, you will be part of a team that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the borough while enjoying the balance of urban and suburban life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Hampshire
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Jobiqo. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Hampshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Jobiqo.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Jobiqo's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jobiqo
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Jobiqo.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Jobiqo will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Jobiqo employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.