Our client is a manufacturer and supplier to the building sector. They are seeking a hands-on and commercially astute Head of Finance to lead and modernise their finance function. Working closely with the owner-managed leadership team, this role will be critical in upgrading financial systems, improving controls, and supporting strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a background in construction or manufacturing, with strong technical skills and practical experience managing all aspects of SME finance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage a small, effective finance team.
- Oversee all financial operations, including cash management, controls, and compliance.
- Review and enhance financial systems, processes, and internal controls.
- Lead the migration from Sage to Xero, ensuring smooth data transition, system setup, and user training.
- Prepare timely and accurate monthly management accounts, annual statutory accounts, and financial reports.
- Oversee group reporting and consolidation, ensuring consistency across entities.
- Manage year-end audit process and relationships with external accountants and auditors.
- Provide regular budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow analysis.
- Maintain accurate accounting for Work in Progress (WIP) and retentions relevant to construction contracts.
- Ensure full compliance with the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), including timely submissions and subcontractor verification.
- Prepare and submit CIS returns and liaise with HMRC as needed.
- Act as a business partner to the management team across the business contributing financial insight to strategic decisions.
- Support commercial functions with costing, contract evaluation, and margin analysis.
Candidate Requirements:
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA).
- Proven experience in a senior finance position within an SME, preferably in an owner-managed environment or at a senior level within a firm of Accountants.
- Solid experience in construction or manufacturing, including knowledge of WIP and retentions.
- Strong understanding and hands-on experience with CIS compliance and reporting.
- Demonstrated experience leading or supporting accounting software migrations (ideally Sage to Xero).
- Hands-on and practical with strong commercial awareness and attention to detail.
- Strong communication and leadership skills; able to influence and support both finance and operational teams.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment where initiative and autonomy are valued.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organisation and be part of their management team.