At a Glance
- Tasks: Take charge of finance operations, from invoicing to cashflow management.
- Company: Join a family-run UK SME in the flexible packaging industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive culture, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Autonomy to shape processes and direct access to senior leadership.
- Why this job: Be at the heart of decision-making in a rapidly growing business.
- Qualifications: Experience in SME finance, strong accounting skills, and attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Southampton (Woolston)
Employment Type: Full‑time, permanent
Reporting to: Day‑to‑day into Head of Operations / Functionally to Group CFO (SIVA Group).
About Us
Siva Group is a proud, family‑run UK SME with deep roots in the flexible packaging industry. We combine the agility of a close‑knit team with the reach of an established group. One of our affiliate companies is a fast‑moving, £15m+ turnover business that plays a critical role in our supply chain and customer delivery.
The Role
You will be the number one finance person for these affiliates, which are growing rapidly. You’ll manage the entire finance function and act as a bridge between numbers and operational reality – including supporting logistics.
Key responsibilities include:
- Invoicing, Credit Control & Accounts Receivable – owning the order‑to‑cash cycle, reducing DSO, and chasing payments professionally but firmly.
- Accounts Payable – managing supplier payments, reconciling statements, and maintaining good supplier relationships.
- Cashflow & Banking – daily cash management, forecasting, and bank reconciliations.
- VAT Reporting – preparing and submitting accurate VAT returns (UK).
- Account Reconciliations – full balance sheet reconciliations, intercompany, and stock/logistics‑related accounts.
- Managing 3rd Parties – leading the relationship with auditors, tax advisors, and banks.
- Logistics Support – working closely with operations and leadership to ensure excellent customer service.
What We’re Looking For
You’ll have worked in a UK SME environment before – ideally manufacturing, packaging, or distribution – and you’re comfortable with the pace, variety, and “no job too small” mentality. This role is perfect for an ambitious finance professional who wants to use their skills to run a business; would suit a qualified accountant looking to transition into industry or an experienced SME finance manager wanting more ownership and growth in another SME.
Essential skills:
- Good SME accounting software skills – Sage preferred.
- Excellent Microsoft Office (Excel – pivot tables, lookups, basic modelling).
- Strong and demonstrable operational finance experience (AR, AP, VAT, reconciliations, cashflow).
- Ability to manage audit and third‑party relationships independently.
- High attention to detail, with a problem‑solving mindset.
Desirable (but not essential):
- Experience in flexible packaging or logistics.
- Part‑qualified / qualified by experience (ACCA, CIMA, AAT) – we value practical ability over letters.
What We Offer
A visible, influential role in a growing £15m+ standalone business. Autonomy to shape processes and improve controls. Supportive family‑run culture, with direct access to senior leadership. Competitive salary and benefits, in line with market comparables for an SME Finance Manager/Controller. Genuine opportunity to grow with the business as the group expands.
Salary (market comparable range) £50,000 – £65,000 (depending on experience) + benefits
Finance Controller in Southampton employer: Siva Group
Siva Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive family-run culture in Southampton, where you can take on a pivotal role as a Finance Manager/Controller. With a focus on employee growth and autonomy, you'll have the opportunity to shape financial processes within a rapidly expanding £15m+ business, while enjoying competitive salary packages and direct access to senior leadership for mentorship and guidance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Controller in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who have experience in SMEs. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their operations and how your skills in cashflow management and VAT reporting can make a difference. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your operational finance experience aligns with their needs. Highlight your problem-solving mindset and attention to detail – these are key in a fast-paced environment like theirs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Controller in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Finance Manager/Controller. Highlight your experience in operational finance, especially in areas like invoicing and cashflow management. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our family-run business. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in finance and how you can bring that expertise to our team.
Showcase Your Software Skills:We value good accounting software skills, especially with Sage. Make sure to mention your proficiency in any relevant software and how you've used it to improve processes in your previous roles. This will help us see your practical ability in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Siva Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager/Controller, you’ll need to demonstrate your strong grasp of financial concepts. Brush up on key metrics like cash flow, DSO, and VAT reporting. Be ready to discuss how you've managed these in previous roles, as this will show your operational finance experience.
✨Showcase Your SME Experience
Since the role is within a UK SME environment, highlight your past experiences in similar settings. Talk about how you’ve adapted to fast-paced environments and taken ownership of finance functions. This will resonate well with the interviewers at Siva Group.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage relationships with auditors and suppliers. Prepare examples of challenges you've faced in these areas and how you resolved them. This will showcase your practical ability and attention to detail.
✨Demonstrate Your Software Skills
Familiarity with accounting software like Sage and advanced Excel skills are essential. Be prepared to discuss specific instances where you used these tools to improve processes or solve problems. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can hit the ground running.
