At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee financial operations and support business growth in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Deakin & Francis, England's oldest manufacturing jeweller with a rich heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, pension scheme, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Opportunity for long-term career development in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a historic luxury brand with ambitious growth plans.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in finance roles within SMEs.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Deakin & Francis Ltd is England's oldest manufacturing jeweller, with a heritage spanning more than two centuries. Based in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, we design and manufacture luxury jewellery and accessories for clients across the UK and internationally. As a family‑owned business with ambitious growth plans, including retail expansion in Birmingham and continued development of our London presence, we are looking for a commercially minded and hands‑on Finance Director or Financial Controller to join our senior leadership team.
This is a varied role that goes far beyond finance. The successful candidate will play a key part in the day‑to‑day running of the business, working closely with the Managing Director and Owner, Henry Deakin.
The Role
Reporting directly to the MD and Owner, this position will oversee all financial operations of the business while also supporting broader operational, commercial, HR, and compliance functions. With an annual turnover of approximately £3m, the role would suit either an experienced Financial Controller ready to broaden their responsibilities or an established Finance Director looking for a dynamic SME environment where they can make a genuine impact. The role is primarily based at our Birmingham factory headquarters, while also overseeing financial operations connected to our London retail activities and upcoming Birmingham retail expansion.
Key Responsibilities
- Finance & Reporting
- Management of day‑to‑day financial operations
- Preparation of monthly management accounts and financial reporting
- Production of detailed board packs and business analysis
- Cashflow forecasting and budgeting
- VAT returns and statutory compliance
- Liaison with external accountants, auditors, banks, and advisors
- Oversight of payroll and financial controls
- Stock and manufacturing cost analysis
- Operational & Commercial Support
- Supporting the MD with day‑to‑day business operations
- Assisting with renewals and administration of insurance, private medical cover, subscriptions, and supplier contracts
- Compliance‑related services
- Supporting process improvement and operational efficiencies
- Helping implement modern systems and technology solutions, including AI‑driven tools and automation
- HR & Compliance
- Supporting HR administration and employee processes; ensuring company compliance and governance standards are maintained; assisting with policies, procedures, and operational documentation
- Systems & Technology
- Managing and improving financial and operational systems; responsibility for stock management, controls, and reconciliation across Unleashed and Xero; margin analysis and product profitability reporting; credit control and supplier payment oversight
- Working with Xero, Unleashed, Excel
About You
We are looking for someone who is commercially aware, highly organised, and comfortable operating in a fast‑moving SME environment.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent)
- Previous manufacturing experience
- Experience in a senior finance role within an SME business
- Strong management reporting and board pack preparation experience
- Excellent Excel skills
- Strong understanding of compliance and financial controls
- Tech savvy and confident adopting new systems and AI tools
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Hands‑on attitude with the ability to work across multiple areas of the business
Desirable
- Experience with Xero and Unleashed
- Retail or luxury goods experience
- Experience supporting HR or operational functions
- Family business or entrepreneurial business background
What We Offer
- Competitive salary depending on experience
- Discretionary performance‑related bonus
- Company pension scheme
- Private medical insurance
- Staff discount on products
- Opportunity to join one of Britain's most historic luxury brands
- A varied and influential role with direct access to senior leadership
- Dynamic and supportive team environment
- Opportunity to contribute to business growth and expansion
- Long‑term career development within a growing company
This is an opportunity for an ambitious finance professional to become an integral part of a growing British luxury brand with genuine influence across the business.
Finance Director or Financial Controller. Job in Birmingham LilyLifestyle Jobs employer: United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
Deakin & Francis Ltd, as England's oldest manufacturing jeweller, offers a unique opportunity for finance professionals to thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment. Located in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, employees benefit from a competitive salary, performance-related bonuses, and private medical insurance, all while contributing to the growth of a prestigious family-owned brand. With a focus on employee development and a hands-on role that extends beyond finance, this is an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding work.
Contact Details:
United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director or Financial Controller. Job in Birmingham LilyLifestyle Jobs
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Finance Director or Financial Controller role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with financial reporting and compliance. Share specific examples of how you've improved processes or saved money in previous roles. We want to see your impact!
✨Be Ready for the Interview
Prepare for those tricky interview questions by practising your responses. Think about how your skills align with the job description, especially around operational support and tech-savviness. We want to see you shine!
✨Apply Through Our Website
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 are genuinely interested in joining our family-owned business.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director or Financial Controller. Job in Birmingham LilyLifestyle Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your financial expertise, especially in manufacturing and SME environments, to show us you're the right fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re interested in Deakin & Francis and how your background aligns with our ambitious growth plans. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Tech Savviness:Since we’re looking for someone who’s comfortable with modern systems and AI tools, don’t forget to mention any relevant tech experience. If you've worked with Xero or Unleashed, let us know!
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
✨Know Your Numbers
Before heading into the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in the financial metrics relevant to Deakin & Francis. Brush up on your cash flow forecasting, budgeting, and management accounts preparation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re not just a numbers person but also someone who understands the business's financial health.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Mindset
This role isn’t just about finance; it’s about supporting the overall business operations. Prepare examples of how you've contributed to operational efficiencies or process improvements in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to think commercially will resonate well with the leadership team.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Their Tools
Since the company uses Xero and Unleashed, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these platforms if you haven’t already. Even if you don’t have direct experience, showing that you’re tech-savvy and willing to learn will impress them. You could even mention any similar tools you’ve used in the past.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the company’s growth plans and how the finance function supports those goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
