Head of finance

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Financial Controller to join an employee-focused SME business, forming part of an international group. This role is based in South Birmingham

Based within the UK entity, you will take full ownership of the UK finance function, reporting directly to the Managing Director and working closely with the wider international Group.

This is a broad and commercially focused role, with responsibility for the full finance function, financial strategy, reporting, controls, cash flow and team leadership. You will provide financial insight to the MD and senior management team, while also supporting wider business decision-making.

Alongside finance, the role will have responsibility for areas including payroll, HR support and quality management processes, making this an excellent opportunity for a senior finance professional looking for genuine ownership and influence within an SME environment.

• Take full ownership of the UK finance function, ensuring the effective delivery of all financial activities.
• Report directly to the Managing Director, providing clear financial insight and commercial advice.
• Develop and implement the financial strategy in line with UK business objectives and wider Group requirements.
• Prepare and deliver quarterly financial reporting to the international Group.
• Lead the annual budgeting, forecasting and longer-term financial planning processes.
• Monitor financial performance and identify opportunities to improve profitability, efficiency and cost management.

• Prepare accurate and timely monthly management accounts and financial reports.
• Produce financial statements and support the annual audit process.
• Oversee statutory reporting, tax requirements and financial compliance.
• Manage the preparation and submission of corporate tax returns and other financial filings.
• Ensure the UK entity complies with relevant accounting standards and financial regulations.
• Liaise directly with HMRC, auditors, banking partners and other external stakeholders.

• Take overall responsibility for UK cash flow management.
• Monitor working capital and liquidity.
• Identify opportunities to improve cash flow and minimise financial risk.
• Oversee supplier payments and financial authorisation processes.

• Act as the key finance contact for the UK entity in relation to Group reporting.
• Prepare and submit quarterly financial information to Group within agreed deadlines.
• Ensure UK financial information is accurate, complete and aligned with Group requirements.
• Work collaboratively with international finance colleagues and senior stakeholders.

• Lead, manage and develop the finance and accounts team.
• Oversee the day-to-day activities of the accounts and administration function.
• Support recruitment, training and development within the team.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and accountability.

• Work closely with the MD and senior management team to support commercial decision-making.
• Provide financial insight across different areas of the business.
• Monitor performance against budgets and agreed targets.
• Provide recommendations around investment and business decisions.

The role will also provide support across a number of wider business functions, including:

• HR and payroll oversight.
• Supporting ISO 9001-related processes and continuous improvement.
• Working with operational teams to collect and analyse business data.

Personal profile

• CIMA, ACA or an equivalent accounting qualification.
• Strong experience preparing management accounts and financial statements.
• Previous experience leading or managing a finance team.
• Strong knowledge of accounting standards and financial procedures.
• Experience dealing with external auditors, HMRC and banking providers.
• Strong commercial awareness and business partnering skills

Salary - Up to £80k, plus bonus and fantastic benefits

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