Financial Accountant

Overview

This is the number-one finance role on site for a manufacturing operation.

As Senior Financial Accountant, you sit at the centre of the business — owning the numbers, the controls, and the story behind manufacturing performance. When the Site Managing Director needs clarity on margin, stock, cost movements, or cash, you’re the person they turn to.

This role requires proven manufacturing finance experience
. It is hands-on, operational, and closely connected to the factory floor.

Manufacturing Finance & Reporting

• Lead monthly management accounts (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) for the site
• Own month-end close, including stock, WIP, overhead absorption, and standard costing
• Analyse and explain production variances across materials, labour, yield, scrap, and efficiency
• Ensure site reporting is accurate, timely, and fully aligned with Group consolidation requirements

Costing, Stock & Operational Insight

• Maintain and update standard costs and overhead rates in line with operational changes
• Ensure stock integrity through accurate valuation, controls, and stock takes under UK GAAP / FRS 102
• Work closely with operations to interpret cost movements and identify margin improvement opportunities
• Maintain robust financial controls across stock, production processes, and fixed assets
• Act as the primary contact for audit and statutory reporting
• Prepare VAT returns and support corporation tax reporting requirements

Business Partnering

• Partner with the Site MD and Operations team to support performance and decision-making
• Provide clear insight into cost drivers, working capital, and operational efficiency
• Support budgets, forecasts, capex appraisals, and cash flow planning

What they're looking for:

• Qualified accountant (ACA or ACCA)
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong understanding of stock, WIP, standard costing, and production variances
• Experience operating as a standalone or senior on-site finance lead
• Confident working closely with operations and non-finance stakeholders
• Strong Excel and ERP experience (SAP, Oracle, Navision, Infor, Syteline, etc.)
• Hands-on, commercially aware, and comfortable in a factory environment