At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage finance functions, produce reports, and support decision-making in a growing SME.
- Company: Dynamic SME manufacturing business with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, 28 days holiday, and free on-site parking.
- Other info: Enjoy significant autonomy and long-term career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Take ownership of finance and make a real impact in a thriving environment.
- Qualifications: AAT qualified or part-qualified CIMA/ACCA with SME experience.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Bury
Salary: £35,000 - £50,000 depending on experience
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Working Arrangement: Fully site-based, Monday to Friday
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced Finance Manager to take ownership of the finance function within a successful and growing SME manufacturing business. This is a varied, hands-on position offering significant autonomy and the opportunity to play a key role within the wider management team. You will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the finance function, producing accurate financial information and supporting senior management with commercial insight and decision-making. The successful candidate will be comfortable working independently, taking ownership and getting involved across all areas of finance within an SME environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare monthly management accounts, including P&L, balance sheet and cash flow reporting
- Manage sales ledger, purchase ledger and credit control activities
- Oversee payroll administration, pensions and statutory deductions
- Ensure compliance with VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax and HMRC requirements
- Monitor cash flow and support financial forecasting
- Develop and maintain robust financial controls and processes
- Support budgeting, forecasting and variance analysis
- Provide accurate financial reporting and commercial insight to senior management
- Assist with manufacturing cost analysis and margin reporting
- Liaise with external auditors, accountants and professional advisors
- Maintain accurate HR records and associated administration
- Act as the internal point of contact for IT-related matters
- Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and controls
- Support the wider business with financial information and analysis as required
About You
We are looking for an organised, commercially aware and experienced finance professional who is confident taking ownership of a finance function within an SME environment.
Essential Requirements
- AAT qualified, part-qualified CIMA/ACCA, or qualified by experience
- Experience producing monthly management accounts within an SME environment
- Strong understanding of VAT, PAYE and HMRC compliance
- Experience with cash flow management and forecasting
- Budgeting and variance analysis experience
- Payroll administration experience, including pensions
- Strong Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office skills
- Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
- Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across all levels of a business
- Able to work independently and manage competing priorities
Desirable
- Previous experience within a manufacturing or production environment
- Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
- Experience with manufacturing cost analysis and margin reporting
- Full training will be provided on Business Central, so previous experience with the system is desirable rather than essential.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary of £35,000 - £50,000 depending on experience
- Pension scheme
- 28 days' holiday including bank holidays
- Modern office and manufacturing facilities
- Free on-site parking
- Friendly and supportive working environment
- Opportunity to make a genuine impact within a growing SME
- Long-term career development opportunities
- Varied role with significant autonomy and responsibility
Working Hours & Location
Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm. This is a fully site-based position in Bury.
Finance Manager employer: Pickles Recruitment
Join a well-established manufacturing company that values hard work and reliability, offering a dynamic work environment for Coating Operatives. With a strong focus on safety and quality, employees benefit from hands-on experience with industrial machinery while enjoying opportunities for growth and development within the production team. The supportive culture fosters teamwork and communication, making it an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
✨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 Pickles Recruitment. 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
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 Pickles Recruitment.
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 Pickles Recruitment'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 Pickles Recruitment
✨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 Pickles Recruitment.
✨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 Pickles Recruitment 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 Pickles Recruitment 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.
