Are you a commercially astute Finance Director who enjoys being close to the business, influencing strategic decisions and making a tangible difference to operational performance?
We are working exclusively with an established, privately owned manufacturing business with an 8 figure turnover, who are looking to appoint an ambitious and hands‑on Finance Director.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, this is a pivotal position offering genuine influence across the business. You will take ownership of the finance function, provide strategic and commercial direction, and play an important role in improving manufacturing performance, profitability and cash flow.
This is much more than a traditional Finance Director position. It offers the opportunity to combine financial leadership with a strong operational and commercial focus, working closely with colleagues across the business, including the manufacturing team.
The Role
As Finance Director, you will be responsible for the overall financial health and performance of the business, providing insight, challenge and direction to support its continued growth.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Strategic & Commercial Leadership: Acting as a trusted business partner to the Managing Director, influencing commercial decisions, business planning and future growth strategies.
- Financial Planning: Leading budgeting, forecasting, financial modelling and scenario planning to support informed decision-making.
- Cash Flow & Working Capital: Driving effective cash management, improving working capital and ensuring strong financial controls.
- Manufacturing Finance: Developing and maintaining robust standard costing models, bills of materials (BOM), labour and overhead absorption rates.
- Cost & Performance Analysis: Producing regular production variance analysis, identifying opportunities to improve material usage, labour efficiency, yield and overall factory performance.
- Stock & Inventory: Strengthening inventory controls across raw materials, work in progress and finished goods, improving stock accuracy and turnover.
- Capital Investment: Evaluating capital expenditure proposals, machinery investment and automation opportunities through robust financial appraisal.
- Financial Reporting & Compliance: Overseeing monthly management accounts, board reporting, statutory accounts, audit, HMRC compliance and R&D tax claims.
- Team Leadership: Leading and developing a small finance team, ensuring an effective and well‑controlled finance function.
You will be expected to balance strategic thinking with a practical, hands‑on approach, getting into the detail when required and building strong relationships throughout the business.
About You
We are looking for a qualified accountant who combines strong technical financial expertise with commercial awareness and a genuine understanding of manufacturing environments.
You will ideally offer:
- ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification, with CIMA particularly advantageous.
- Proven senior‑level finance experience within a manufacturing, engineering or production‑led SME.
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing costing, including standard costing, BOMs, labour and overhead absorption.
- Experience analysing production variances, inventory and manufacturing performance.
- A good understanding of manufacturing ERP systems and advanced Excel skills.
- The confidence to challenge, influence and support stakeholders at all levels, from the factory floor to the boardroom.
- A proactive, collaborative and hands‑on approach, with the ability to operate both strategically and operationally.
Above all, you will be someone who enjoys taking ownership, improving processes and helping a business achieve its commercial ambitions.
The Opportunity & Package
- Salary of £60,000 - £85,000, dependent on experience.
- Performance‑related bonus.
- Electric company car.
- Full‑time, permanent position.
- Direct reporting line to the Managing Director.
- Genuine opportunity to influence business strategy and manufacturing performance.
- A key leadership role within an established, privately owned and growing business.
- Location: Weekly Office attendance Suffolk.
Please note: This is an office‑based position, and regular attendance at the company's Suffolk site is essential. It is therefore important that applicants are comfortable with the location and commuting requirements.
Interested?
If you are a commercially driven Finance Director with manufacturing experience and are looking for a role where you can genuinely influence the direction and performance of a business, we would love to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion, please get in touch.
Finance Director Medical Manufacturing Specialist in Debenham employer: Prospect Health
Prospect Health offers an exceptional working environment for Salaried GPs in Yeovil, where you can enjoy the benefits of flexible hours and a supportive team dedicated to high-quality patient care. With access to the NHS Pension Scheme and a comprehensive benefits package, this role not only provides job stability but also fosters professional growth within a friendly and collaborative atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director Medical Manufacturing Specialist in Debenham
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Prospect Health, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Prospect Health specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospect Health
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Prospect Health, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Prospect Health value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
