At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, manage reporting, and drive financial performance in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Established manufacturing business with a strong reputation and supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, autonomy in role, and direct exposure to senior leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a stable, values-driven company.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping the finance function and driving continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 3+ years experience in manufacturing or product-based environments.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
A long‑established, privately owned manufacturing business is seeking a dynamic Finance Manager to take ownership of the finance function and play a pivotal role in driving operational and financial performance. This is a hands‑on, commercially involved role suited to someone who thrives in a fast‑paced, product‑led environment and enjoys being close to the numbers, the operations, and the decision‑making.
The Opportunity
You’ll join a stable, growing business with a strong reputation in its sector. As the Finance Manager, you will lead the day‑to‑day finance operations, strengthen financial controls, and provide insight and challenge needed to support the leadership team. This is an ideal role for someone ready to step up, take full ownership, and become a trusted partner to the Finance Director, Senior leadership team and wider business.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the finance function, including a small team
- Oversee all financial reporting: monthly management accounts, board packs, KPIs, and variance analysis
- Own budgeting, forecasting, and cash‑flow management
- Strengthen financial controls, processes, and compliance
- Drive cost analysis, margin improvement, and operational efficiency
- Manage year‑end processes, audit, and statutory accounts
- Oversee stock accounting, manufacturing costings, and product profitability
- Support the leadership team with commercial insight and scenario modelling
- Lead system improvements and ensure data accuracy across finance and operations
- Provide financial stewardship while supporting growth, investment, and operational decision‑making
Requirements Experience & Background
- Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with a minimum of 3+ years PQE
- Strong experience in manufacturing, engineering, or product‑based environments
- Proven track record of leading financial operations and improving processes
- Confident producing high‑quality management information and board‑level reporting
- Strong understanding of costings, stock, and manufacturing performance metrics
- Comfortable working in a hands‑on, owner‑managed business
- Experience managing or developing a small finance team
- Strong systems capability and advanced Excel skills
Personal Attributes
- Commercially minded with the confidence to challenge and influence
- Detail‑driven, disciplined, and proactive
- Comfortable operating independently and taking full ownership
- Strong communicator who can translate financial data into clear business insight
- Thrives in a practical, operationally connected environment
Benefits What's on Offer
- A high‑impact role with real autonomy and influence
- Direct exposure to the senior leadership team
- Opportunity to shape the finance function and drive continuous improvement
- Stable, long‑term environment with strong values and a supportive culture
- Salary of £50,000 - £60,000
Finance Manager in Northampton employer: OM Search Consultants LTD
Join a long-established, privately owned manufacturing business that values stability and growth, offering a supportive culture where your contributions as a Finance Manager will have a direct impact on operational and financial performance. With opportunities for professional development and the chance to work closely with senior leadership, you will thrive in a hands-on role that encourages autonomy and innovation in a fast-paced environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the manufacturing industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Finance Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial knowledge and understanding of the manufacturing sector. Be ready to discuss how you've improved processes and driven operational efficiency in your previous roles. Show them you’re the hands-on, commercially minded candidate 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 match your skills. Tailor your approach to each company to show you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to their financial success.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Finance Manager role. Highlight your experience in manufacturing and any relevant financial operations you've led. We want to see how you can bring value 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 hands-on role. Share specific examples of how you've driven financial performance and improved processes in previous positions.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your qualifications and systems capabilities, especially your advanced Excel skills. We’re looking for someone who can handle the numbers and provide insightful analysis, so let us know how you’ve done this before!
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 you one step closer to joining our dynamic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at OM Search Consultants LTD
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you’ll need to be comfortable with financial data. Brush up on key metrics related to manufacturing and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in your previous roles. This shows you’re not just about the numbers but also about the insights they provide.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You’ll be leading a small finance team, so it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership style. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully managed teams, improved processes, or mentored colleagues. This will highlight your ability to take ownership and be a trusted partner to the Finance Director.
✨Prepare for Scenario Modelling Questions
Given the role's focus on providing commercial insight and scenario modelling, expect questions that test your analytical skills. Think of past experiences where you’ve had to model different financial scenarios and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Understand the Business Environment
Familiarise yourself with the manufacturing industry and the specific challenges it faces. Being able to discuss current trends or issues in the sector will show that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the role, making you a more appealing candidate.
