Job Description

Finance Manager

Cardiff/Hybrid

Up to £65,000 + Bens

Our growing specialist engineering services client is looking appoint an ambitious, commercially focused, qualified accountant for the role of Finance Manager.

Reporting to the FD, this role will be responsible for day-to-day financial operations, accurate monthly reporting, financial controls, budgeting, forecasting, and providing meaningful commercial insight to operational stakeholders.

The position would suit a recently qualified accountant (0-3 years PQE) who is comfortable operating in a hands-on SME environment, while also working within a wider group structure.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare monthly management accounts in line with group reporting deadlines.
• Produce accurate financial reporting, variance analysis, forecasting commentary, and management insight.
• Maintain strong balance sheet reconciliations, VAT submissions, and financial controls.
• Support the annual budgeting and forecasting process.
• Monitor budget versus actual performance and explain key movements.
• Partner with operational teams to improve financial visibility and decision-making.
• Provide analysis to support strategic projects, investment decisions, operational improvements, and potential M&A activity.
• Contribute to management reporting, dashboards, and business presentations.
• Identify opportunities to improve finance processes, systems, and reporting efficiency.
• Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, banks, and other external stakeholders where required.

Candidate profile

• Qualified accountant: ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent.
• Minimum 4 years’ experience in finance, either in practice or industry.
• Ideally 2+ years’ post-qualified experience in commercial finance, management accounting, or an SME finance role.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including UK GAAP.
• Confident preparing management accounts, reconciliations, forecasts, and financial analysis.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience using finance systems or ERP software.
• Sage 50 experience would be beneficial but is not essential.
• Clear communicator with the ability to work closely with both finance and non-finance stakeholders.
• Strong attention to detail, commercial awareness, and problem-solving ability.

Package and working pattern

• Up to £65,000, depending on experience.
• Full-time, permanent role.
• Hybrid working available, subject to company policy.
• South Wales office location, commutable from Cardiff and surrounding areas.
• Minimal travel expected.

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