Finance Business Partner (Audit) in Stoke-on-Trent

We are seeking a qualified and motivated Finance Business Partner (Audit) to support the financial reporting cycle and play a key role in assisting with the preparation of financial statements and external audit processes, as well as monthly management accounts. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate financial insights effectively across the business. This role is essential in ensuring the accuracy, compliance, and timeliness of financial reporting and will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams and external auditors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the preparation of monthly management reports in line with IFRS or applicable reporting standards.
• Deliver high-quality internal & external audit engagements, working closely with the UK finance team to ensure accurate financial reporting, robust internal controls, and compliance with UK regulatory and accounting requirements.
• Work closely with operational and departmental stakeholders to provide financial insight, variance analysis, and recommendations for performance improvement.
• Act as a business partner to key stakeholders, helping them understand financial results and their impact on operational performance.
• Support in the development and implementation of financial controls, policies, and procedures.
• Plan, manage and review statutory audits in accordance with UK ISAs, UK GAAP, FRS 102, and IFRS where applicable.
• Review audit working papers and financial statements prior to final approval.
• Identify audit risks, control weaknesses and technical issues, and agree practical solutions with the finance team.
• Collaborate with the wider finance team to ensure accurate general ledger maintenance and month-end closing activities.
• Contribute to budgeting and forecasting processes, providing insight into variances and business drivers.
• Continuously seek process improvements and automation opportunities within financial reporting and audit preparation.

Required Skills/Qualifications:

• ACCA qualified (or equivalent).
• Minimum of 4 years of relevant finance experience, preferably in a business partnering or reporting role.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, with proven experience in financial statement preparation.
• Experience in audit processes, either from a corporate or public practice environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel; experience with ERP systems (e.g., Sage 50/Sage 200 and HFM) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Coordinate audit planning, information requests and deliverables with the UK finance team.
• Act as a key liaison between auditors and finance, ensuring clear communication and smooth audit execution.
• Provide guidance and support to finance colleagues on audit requirements, accounting standards and best practice.
• Partner with finance to resolve audit queries efficiently and minimise disruption to business operations.
• Support finance teams during year-end, interim audits and regulatory reporting processes.

What We Offer:

• A collaborative and supportive working environment.
• Opportunities for career growth and continuous professional development.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Exposure to a dynamic and evolving finance function.
• Opportunity to work remotely 2 days per week (or negotiable).

The salary is between £56,000 & £60,000 per year, depending on your professional experience. Holidays - 25 days plus.