Financial Controller in Colchester

My client is a growing manufacturing business. They are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Financial Controller to lead their finance function and play a key role in supporting the business's continued growth and success. Reporting to senior leadership, you will be responsible for the integrity of financial reporting, cash flow management, budgeting and forecasting, financial controls, and team leadership. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified accountant who enjoys combining strong technical expertise with commercial insight and people management.

The successful candidate will lead month-end and year-end processes, oversee Accounts Payable and Credit Control teams, drive process improvements, and provide strategic financial support across the organisation.

• Financial Reporting & Management Accounts
  • Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes.
  • Ensure accurate and timely production of management accounts.
  • Deliver meaningful financial analysis and commentary to senior management.
  • Maintain compliance with accounting standards, internal controls, and company policies.
• Cash Flow & Working Capital Management
  • Monitor and manage daily cash flow and liquidity.
  • Prepare and maintain rolling cash flow forecasts.
  • Drive improvements in working capital performance.
  • Manage banking relationships and support funding requirements.
• Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning
  • Lead the annual budget and periodic forecasting processes.
  • Partner with departmental leaders to monitor financial performance.
  • Analyse variances and provide commercial recommendations.
  • Support strategic decision-making through financial modelling and business analysis.
• Financial Controls, Compliance & Audit
  • Maintain robust financial controls and governance frameworks.
  • Coordinate external audits and statutory reporting requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with tax, VAT, and regulatory obligations.
  • Identify and implement process and system improvements.
• Team Leadership & Development
  • Lead, mentor, and develop finance team members.
  • Foster a high-performing, collaborative finance culture.
  • Drive automation, reporting enhancements, and operational efficiencies.
  • Support continuous professional development across the finance team.
• Credit Control Leadership
  • Manage and develop the Credit Control function.
  • Oversee debt collection strategies and customer account management.
  • Minimise bad debt exposure through effective controls and processes.
  • Ensure timely escalation and resolution of overdue accounts.
• Accounts Payable Leadership
  • Oversee the Accounts Payable function and supplier payment processes.
  • Ensure accurate invoice processing and approval workflows.
  • Maintain strong supplier relationships.
  • Strengthen controls across the purchase-to-pay cycle.

You will be a proactive and commercially focused finance professional with strong leadership skills and a passion for driving continuous improvement.

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related discipline preferred.
• Strong knowledge of UK GAAP, IFRS, and financial reporting standards.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience using financial systems.
• Experience with ERP systems such as Sage 200, Microsoft Dynamics 365, or similar platforms is desirable.

• Minimum 5-7 years' finance experience.
• At least 2-3 years in a senior finance leadership role such as Financial Controller, Finance Manager, Senior Management Accountant, or Assistant Financial Controller.
• Proven experience managing month-end and year-end close processes.
• Strong background in budgeting, forecasting, management reporting, and cash flow management.
• Demonstrable experience managing Accounts Payable and Credit Control teams.
• Experience leading audits, statutory compliance, and financial control improvements.
• Experience within a fast-paced or multi-entity environment is advantageous.

• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to communicate financial information effectively to non-financial stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Commercially aware with a strong business partnering approach.
• Proactive mindset with a focus on process improvement and automation.

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to play a key role in a growing organisation.
• Collaborative and supportive working environment.
• Career development and progression opportunities.
• The chance to influence strategic decision-making and drive business performance.