Finance Manager

CMA Recruitment Group are delighted to be exclusively working with an award-winning communication business in Reading, Berkshire. We are seeking an experienced and proactive Finance Manager to take full ownership of day‑time finance operations. This hands‑on role oversees everything from invoicing and balance sheet reconciliations to budgeting, cashflow forecasting and preparation of management accounts.

You will be a key financial partner to senior leadership, providing accurate and timely insight to support strategic decision‑making. Working closely with an external Finance NED (2 days per month), you’ll also ensure robust financial controls are in place and support continued business growth.

This role will suit someone detail‑driven, confident, and commercially focused – someone who enjoys rolling up their sleeves while also thinking strategically.

• Oversee daily finance operations including accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and reconciliations.
• Produce monthly management accounts and regular cashflow forecasts.
• Lead annual budgeting and forecasting cycles.
• Manage VAT submissions, tax compliance and financial governance.
• Review and support the drafting of commercial agreements with clients and suppliers.
• Partner with senior teams to support commercial decisions and performance.

• Qualified or part‑qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in finance management, ideally within a creative or professional services.
• Strong systems knowledge (Xero preferred) and confident Excel user.
• Analytical, commercially minded and comfortable presenting insight to senior leaders.
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail and a proactive approach.

• Full ownership of the finance function with strategic influence.
• Opportunity to shape financial systems, reporting and processes for growth.
• Hybrid working model – 4 days in‑office, 1 remote.
• Competitive salary £45,000‑£50,000 (dependent on experience).
• Supportive, creative and ambitious working environment.

CMA complies with all relevant UK legislation and doesn’t discriminate on any protected characteristics.