Finance Manager

We are seeking a proactive and hands-on Finance Manager to oversee the day-to-day financial management of our growing business. With an annual turnover of approximately £1 million, this role is ideal for someone who enjoys working within a small, dynamic team and can combine strong financial management with HR administration and employee support.

The successful candidate will take ownership of the finance function, ensuring accurate reporting, robust financial controls, effective cash flow management, and compliance with statutory obligations. In addition, they will support the management team with HR administration, recruitment coordination, payroll processing, and employee record management.

This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in the continued growth and success of the business.

Key Responsibilities

Finance

• Manage the company's accounting function using Xero.
• Prepare monthly management accounts, including profit and loss, balance sheet and cash flow reports.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting and cash flow planning processes.
• Monitor financial performance and provide analysis and recommendations to management.
• Manage sales ledger, purchase ledger and credit control activities.
• Reconcile bank accounts and maintain accurate financial records.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns and support year-end accounts preparation.
• Liaise with external accountants, auditors, banks and other professional advisers.
• Manage payroll processing and pension administration.
• Develop and improve financial controls, systems and reporting processes.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant financial and statutory obligations.

HR & People Administration

• Maintain employee records and HR documentation.
• Support recruitment activities including advertising vacancies, arranging interviews and onboarding new employees.
• Coordinate employment contracts, offer letters and probation reviews.
• Manage holiday, absence and employee records.
• Assist managers with HR policies and procedures.
• Coordinate training records and employee development activities.
• Support payroll administration by maintaining accurate employee data.
• Act as the first point of contact for day-to-day HR queries.
• Ensure compliance with employment legislation and company policies.

Business Support

• Provide financial and operational insights to support business decision-making.
• Assist with strategic planning and growth initiatives.
• Support continuous improvement of business systems and processes.
• Contribute to a positive and collaborative working culture.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Previous experience in a Finance Manager, Financial Controller or senior finance role.
• Strong working knowledge of Xero.
• Experience producing management accounts and financial reports.
• Payroll and pension administration experience.
• Excellent Excel and financial analysis skills.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.

Desirable

• AAT, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent qualification (qualified, part-qualified or qualified by experience).
• Previous HR administration or HR management experience.
• Experience working within an SME environment.
• Knowledge of UK employment legislation.
• Experience implementing process improvements and financial controls.