At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function, manage accounting operations, and produce financial reports.
- Company: Dynamic commercial business backed by a major global parent group.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £80,000 plus benefits and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Autonomous role with a hands-on approach in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Shape the finance department from scratch and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified preferred; strong accounting experience required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Hemel Hempstead
Salary: Up to 80,000 + Benefits
Position: Full–time, Permanent
About the Business
We are exclusively partnering with a highly successful, growing commercial business to recruit a hands–on Head of Finance. The company operates as a lean, profitable UK commercial hub backed by a major global parent group. Due to a strategic restructuring and a push for greater localized control, the business is completely insourcing its financial operations. This creates an exciting, clean–slate opportunity for a finance leader to shape an entire function from the ground up.
The Role
This is a highly autonomous, standalone position that requires a unique blend of technical accounting capability and a "roll–your–sleeves–up" attitude. You will not just be reviewing the numbers; you will be entirely responsible for producing them. The immediate priority will be leading a smooth transition project to bring all accounting functions completely in–house, designing new workflows, and establishing robust internal controls.
Key Responsibilities
- Project–manage the full insourcing and optimisation of the UK entity's accounting functions.
- Take complete ownership of the preparation and timely production of monthly management accounts and statutory financial statements.
- Manage all localized financial reporting, corporate tax alignment, and VAT compliance.
- Establish, implement, and tighten internal controls, commercial processes, and financial systems.
- Provide clear financial commentary, budgeting, and forecasting directly to executive leadership.
- Act as the primary UK point of contact for external auditors, banks, and the international group finance team.
The Ideal Candidate
Qualification: ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified is highly preferred.
Background: This role is a perfect match for a high–caliber Accountancy Practice 2nd mover looking for their next step in industry, or an experienced SME Finance Manager/Controller used to running a lean, highly hands–on department.
Technical Capability: A proven track record of personally producing full sets of statutory and management accounts from scratch is non–negotiable.
Mindset: An adaptable, organized "all–rounder" who is equally comfortable dealing with high–level strategy as they are handling day–to–day, granular accounting tasks.
International experience: Previous experience working within an international group or subsidiary framework is advantageous but not essential.
Finance Manager in Kings Langley employer: Morgan McKinley (Milton Keynes)
As a Finance Manager at our Hemel Hempstead location, you will join a dynamic and growing commercial business that values innovation and autonomy. We offer a supportive work culture that encourages professional development and provides opportunities to shape the finance function from the ground up. With competitive salary packages and a commitment to employee growth, this role is perfect for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in a thriving environment.
Contact Details:
Morgan McKinley (Milton Keynes) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Kings Langley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, attend industry events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Finance Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding the company’s financial landscape. Be ready to discuss how you can lead the insourcing project and establish robust internal controls. Show them you’re the hands-on leader they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Use our website to find roles that excite you and tailor your approach to each one. We’ve got plenty of opportunities waiting for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and are genuinely interested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Kings Langley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Finance Manager. Highlight your experience with statutory accounts and any hands-on projects you've led, especially those involving insourcing or optimising financial functions.
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 standalone position. Share specific examples of how you've rolled up your sleeves in previous roles and made a real impact.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role requires a strong technical accounting background, be sure to mention your qualifications (like ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) and any relevant software or systems you’ve used. We want to see that you can handle the numbers!
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 from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Morgan McKinley (Milton Keynes)
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your technical accounting skills. Brush up on your knowledge of statutory and management accounts, and be ready to discuss how you've produced them in the past. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to handle financial reporting and compliance.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
This role involves leading the insourcing of accounting functions, so be prepared to talk about your project management experience. Think of specific projects where you’ve successfully managed transitions or optimised processes, and be ready to explain your approach and the outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Style
Since this is a standalone position, it’s crucial to convey your leadership style. Share examples of how you’ve led teams or initiatives in the past, especially in a hands-on capacity. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively with executive leadership and external stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think about challenges you might face in this role, such as establishing internal controls or managing financial reporting under tight deadlines. Prepare structured responses that outline your thought process and solutions.
