At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance for a major food manufacturing site and improve inventory and product costing.
- Company: Established UK food manufacturer with a rich heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive contract rate, hands-on experience, and opportunity to influence operations.
- Other info: Fast-paced role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while enhancing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Senior finance background in food or FMCG with strong ERP experience.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
QLM Search is partnering a well-established UK food manufacturer with a rich heritage that is seeking an Interim Head of Finance - Inventory & Product Costing to support one of its key divisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all aspects of site finance for a major manufacturing operation
- Take ownership of inventory valuation, stock integrity and product costing
- Review and improve standard costing, BOM accuracy, yields and overhead absorption
- Analyse and resolve manufacturing variances across materials, labour and overheads
- Ensure accurate and timely month-end close and reporting for manufacturing P&L
- Strengthen financial controls, governance and compliance at site level
- Act as a trusted finance partner to the Site Director and Operations leadership
- Deliver clear actions, improvements and a sustainable handover plan
Candidate Profile
- Senior manufacturing finance background within food or FMCG
- Proven experience in inventory accounting and product costing in complex factories
- Previous experience operating at Head of Finance / Site Finance Lead / Manufacturing FD level
- Strong interim track record with a hands-on, delivery-focused approach
- Comfortable working on-site and influencing operational stakeholders
- Strong ERP experience (SAP or equivalent manufacturing systems)
- Able to operate at pace in a high-volume, time-sensitive environment
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Contract
Job function: Finance
Industries: Food and Beverage Manufacturing and Dairy Product Manufacturing
Interim Head of Finance - Inventory & Product Costing employer: QLM Search
QLM Search offers an exceptional work environment for the Global Commercial Growth Leader, characterised by a dynamic and consumer-focused culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, competitive compensation packages, and the chance to make a significant impact within a major branded food group. Located in a vibrant industry hub, this role provides unique advantages for networking and career advancement in the food and beverage sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Finance - Inventory & Product Costing
✨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 QLM Search. 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 Interim Head of Finance - Inventory & Product Costing
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 QLM Search.
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 QLM Search'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 QLM Search
✨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 QLM Search.
✨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 QLM Search 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 QLM Search 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.
