At a Glance
- Tasks: Take charge of finance, manage accounts, and drive improvements in a growing business.
- Company: Dynamic owner-led business with a focus on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity for permanent role, and influence in decision-making.
- Other info: Immediate start required; great chance to enhance your career in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by partnering with Directors and shaping financial strategies.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 5+ years in finance and strong technical skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
We're working with a growing, owner-led business to recruit a hands-on Finance Manager to take full ownership of the finance function and partner closely with the Directors on a temporary to permanent basis. This is a broad and commercially focused role, ideal for someone who enjoys being at the centre of a business, driving improvements and adding real value beyond the numbers.
The Role
- Full ownership of monthly management accounts and financial reporting
- Partnering with Directors and senior management to support decision-making, budgeting, and forecasting
- Reviewing and overseeing VAT returns, corporate tax, and compliance requirements
- Managing weekly and monthly payroll processes, including PAYE and CIS
- Producing detailed financial analysis, including departmental spend and costings
- Leading credit control and actively managing aged debtors
- Supporting audit preparation and reducing reliance on external accountants
- Driving process improvements across finance and the wider business
- Enhancing systems, including purchase ordering and financial controls
- Supporting and developing a small finance team
You will also play a key role in analysing trends, improving reporting accuracy, and helping the business plan effectively for future growth.
About You
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Minimum 5 years’ experience within a finance role (practice or industry)
- Strong technical knowledge across management accounts, VAT, and compliance
- Experience managing payroll processes (desirable)
- Confident working in an SME environment with a hands-on approach
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Comfortable working with senior stakeholders and influencing decisions
- Experience with Xero or similar systems (desirable)
Why Apply?
- Broad, commercially focused role with real influence
- Direct exposure to Directors and strategic decision-making
- Opportunity to implement change and improve processes
- Growing business with strong future potential
You must be immediately available or on a one week notice to apply.
Company Accountant / Finance Controller (Temp to perm) in England employer: SF Partners
Contact Detail:
SF Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Company Accountant / Finance Controller (Temp to perm) in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world and let them know you're on the hunt for a new role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial practices. Show them you’re not just about the numbers; you understand their business and can add real value. Tailor your examples to highlight how you've driven improvements in past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We want to see your application and get you in front of the right people. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your CV gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Company Accountant / Finance Controller (Temp to perm) in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role. Highlight your experience in finance management, especially any hands-on roles where you've partnered with senior management. We want to see how you can add value beyond just numbers!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your qualifications and how your experience aligns with the company's goals. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Whether it's improving financial processes or leading a team, we want to know how you've made a difference in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at SF Partners
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Company Accountant, you’ll need to demonstrate your strong technical knowledge. Brush up on management accounts, VAT, and compliance requirements. Be ready to discuss how you've handled these in past roles and any specific challenges you've overcome.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a small finance team, so be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Share examples of how you've supported and developed team members in the past, and how you plan to drive process improvements across the finance function.
✨Understand the Business
Since this position requires partnering closely with Directors, do your homework on the company. Understand their business model, recent developments, and how finance plays a role in their strategic decision-making. This will help you show that you can add real value beyond just the numbers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle real-life scenarios. Think of examples where you've improved financial processes or managed aged debtors effectively. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.