At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a growing design business.
- Company: Established, values-driven company focused on sustainability and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, flexible commitment, lunch provided, and on-site parking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a pivotal role with autonomy and influence.
- Qualifications: Experience at FD level in SMEs, strong finance skills, and independent mindset.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and support growth from £5m to £10m turnover.
Location: Sandbach, Cheshire (on-site)
Day Rate: £600 (PAYE or LTD)
Start Date: From 1 April 2026 (earlier start considered)
We are acting as an introductory agent on behalf of a long-established, privately owned business operating within the design sector. With a current headcount of circa 53 employees and 2025 turnover of £6.05m, the business has a clear strategic ambition to scale sustainably to £7m+ in 2026 supported by strong EBITDA performance. The business is values-led, environmentally conscious and focused on long-term sustainability, both commercially and operationally.
This is a board-facing, hands-on Finance Director role, operating on a one-day-per-week basis, designed to bring objectivity, challenge and commercial rigour into the leadership team. You will act as a trusted right-hand advisor to the Managing Director and shareholders, taking ownership of the finance function while providing strategic oversight and governance. This role carries real influence and accountability, rather than being purely advisory in nature.
Key Responsibilities- Take full ownership of management accounts, reporting accuracy and financial discipline
- Strengthen financial governance, controls and accountability at board and shareholder level
- Act as a commercial sounding board, constructively challenging decisions and assumptions
- Provide clarity and discipline around cash management, spend and shareholder drawings
- Support the existing finance team (Accounts Manager plus two team members)
- Improve data quality, insight and visibility to enable informed decision-making
- Lead budgeting, forecasting and performance tracking
- Support growth from £5m to £10m turnover, ensuring financial scalability
- Advise on systems strategy (current Sage 50; ERP considerations from 2027 onwards)
- Protect and enhance long-term enterprise value
This role will suit an experienced Finance Director or Fractional FD who thrives in SME, owner-managed environments and is comfortable operating with autonomy and authority. You are likely to bring:
- Proven experience at FD / Board level, ideally within SMEs (£5m-£20m turnover)
- A track record of supporting growth, governance and commercial decision-making
- The confidence to ask difficult questions and challenge constructively
- A pragmatic, independent mindset with no emotional attachment to outcomes
- Strong technical and commercial finance capability
- Experience working with existing finance teams and external advisors
- Exposure to system scalability and infrastructure planning
Formal qualifications (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) are advantageous but not essential if supported by demonstrable FD-level experience.
Working Pattern & Package- Commitment: 1 day per week
- Day Rate: £600
- Engagement: PAYE or LTD
- Location: Sandbach, Cheshire (on-site)
- Lunch provided on working day
- On-site parking available
This is a high-impact, low-days commitment opportunity to partner with a stable, growing business at a pivotal stage of its journey. The board is open to challenge, values independent thinking and is actively seeking a finance leader who will take ownership rather than simply report numbers.
Fractional Finance Director (1 Day per Week) in Sandbach employer: UBT
Contact Detail:
UBT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fractional Finance Director (1 Day per Week) in Sandbach
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you land an interview, make sure to highlight your experience in driving growth and governance. Share specific examples of how you've challenged decisions and improved financial processes. We want to see that you can bring real value to the table!
✨Ask the Right Questions
During interviews, don’t just answer questions—ask them too! Inquire about the company’s financial goals and challenges. This shows that you’re genuinely interested and ready to take ownership of the finance function. We love candidates who are proactive!
✨Apply Through Our Website
If you’re keen on this Fractional Finance Director role, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you get the attention you deserve. Let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Fractional Finance Director (1 Day per Week) in Sandbach
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your previous experience as a Finance Director or in similar roles. We want to see how you've supported growth and made impactful decisions in the past, especially in SME environments.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through! We’re looking for someone who can challenge constructively and bring a pragmatic mindset. Don’t be afraid to show us your independent thinking and how you approach tough questions.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application to reflect the values and goals of our business. Mention how your skills align with our ambition to scale sustainably and enhance long-term enterprise value. We love seeing candidates who resonate with our mission!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone!
How to prepare for a job interview at UBT
✨Know the Business Inside Out
Before your interview, take the time to research the company thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and recent developments in the design sector. This will not only help you align your answers with their goals but also show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their growth.
✨Prepare for Board-Level Discussions
Since this role is board-facing, be ready to discuss strategic financial decisions and governance. Think about how you can challenge assumptions constructively and provide insights based on your past experiences. Prepare examples of how you've successfully navigated similar situations in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Highlight your technical finance capabilities, especially in management accounts and cash management. Be prepared to discuss your experience with systems like Sage 50 and any ERP considerations you've encountered. This will demonstrate your readiness to take ownership of the finance function.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Use the opportunity to ask insightful questions about the company's growth plans and financial governance. This shows that you're not just there to fill a role but are genuinely interested in how you can add value and support their ambitions. It also gives you a chance to assess if the company aligns with your own values and working style.