We are seeking a hands-on, commercially aware Finance Manager to lead day-to-day financial operations and support strategic decision-making. This role requires strong technical finance skills, the ability to work closely with manufacturing, operations and sales, and a proactive mindset to improve systems, reporting, and business performance. Key Responsibilities: * Financial Planning & Analysis * Lead the budgeting and forecasting process across departments * Provide regular financial performance reports and insightful analysis to senior leadership * Monitor key financial KPIs, margins, and cost structures to drive profitability * Month-End & Financial Reporting * Own the month-end close process, ensuring timely and accurate reporting * Prepare management accounts with variance analysis and commentary * Support statutory reporting and year-end audit preparation * Team Management & Development * Supervise, mentor, and support a small finance team of two * Review and improve transactional processes (AR, AP, payroll, bank recs) * Cash Flow & Working Capital Management * Monitor cash flow daily, and produce short- and long-term cash forecasts * Work with suppliers and customers to manage payment terms and collections * Business Partnering * Collaborate with operations and commercial teams to evaluate financial impact of operational decisions * Support pricing, costing, and capex decisions with data-driven input * Systems & Controls * Strengthen internal controls, financial procedures, and documentation * Identify opportunities to automate reporting and improve financial systems (e.g., ERP, Excel models) Candidate Requirements: * Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) with post-qualification experience in an SME or mid-sized business * Strong management accounting and budgeting experience, ideally in a product or manufacturing environment * Excellent Excel skills and experience with accounting/ERP systems (e.g., Sage, NetSuite, SAP, etc.) * Demonstrated ability to manage a small team and improve finance processes * Commercially minded with a focus on business improvement and cost control * Strong communication skills and ability to influence non-finance stakeholders Desirable: * Experience in a manufacturing, engineering, or technology infrastructure business * Experience with stock management, costing, or project accounting * Exposure to international transactions (FX, multi-currency accounts)