Finance Manager Job at Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire Full Time

A well-established and growing manufacturing and logistics group are seeking an experienced, hands-on Finance Manager to lead the finance function across a small multi-entity operation.

This opportunity is ideal for a commercially minded finance professional who enjoys ownership, operational involvement and working closely with non-finance teams in a fast-paced SME environment. The role would suit a full or part-qualified accountant or someone qualified by experience (QBE) with strong manufacturing knowledge and confidence managing end-to-end finance.

Job Title: Finance Manager – Manufacturing & Logistics

Location: Milton Keynes (on-site, Monday-Friday)
Salary: £50,000 – £55,000 + benefits
Type: Full-time, Permanent

Reporting into senior leadership, you will take full responsibility for finance operations, reporting and controls while leading a small finance team. You will play a key role in improving systems, strengthening processes and providing real-time financial insight to support operational and strategic decision-making.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Lead end-to-end finance operations including PL, SL, GL, fixed assets and reconciliations
• Own weekly and monthly close processes and deliver timely management accounts, KPIs and variance analysis
• Manage cashflow, working capital, forecasting, budgeting and long-term financial planning
• Maintain strong financial controls and coordinate internal and external audits
• Maximise ERP effectiveness (Microsoft Business Central or similar), driving automation, system integrity and process improvement across finance, inventory, production, sales and logistics
• Standardise finance processes across group entities and improve month-end efficiency
• Oversee manufacturing cost accounting including COGS, labour, overheads, variances, stock control and stock takes
• Provide financial oversight and insight across logistics operations, including fleet, fuel, subcontractors, route profitability and operational KPIs
• Oversee payroll, pensions and statutory compliance including VAT, Intrastat and EC Sales Lists
• Lead and develop a small finance team and partner closely with operational and commercial stakeholders
• Deliver clear, data-driven insight to support decision-making, scenario planning and strategic initiatives

What we are looking for:

• AAT, ACCA or CIMA qualified, part-qualified or QBE
• Strong SME finance background
• Manufacturing experience is very desirable and logistics exposure highly advantageous
• Advanced Excel and strong ERP experience (Business Central highly desirable)
• Proven experience managing or supervising a finance team
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and deadline management
• Confident communicator with a proactive, improvement-focused mindset

This is a rare opportunity to step into a visible, influential finance role within a growing business where your expertise will genuinely shape processes, controls and decision-making. You’ll enjoy autonomy, operational exposure and the chance to make a tangible impact rather than being confined to a purely reporting-led role.

If you’re an experienced Finance Manager or Senior Accountant looking for ownership, variety and real commercial involvement, we’d be delighted to discuss this opportunity further.

Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. PLEASE NOTE! You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Business in relation to this role.