Financial Controller - Manufacturing

We are seeking a commercially minded, strategically driven Financial Controller to join our client’s senior finance leadership team. Reporting directly into the CFO, this role goes far beyond traditional financial control. It is pivotal to the operational and commercial heartbeat of the business, playing a key role in guiding financial strategy, improving performance, and driving growth. This is a high-impact position with a mandate to embed deeply within the business.

Role:

• Reporting directly into the CFO, you’ll lead the financial operations of the business, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and providing strategic financial insight to senior leadership.
• They very much see this as a ‘non-traditional FC’ – I.E – they want this person to have a strong understanding of their margins, be able to forecast where the business is going, and understand the full operation and sensitivities behind it. There’s a massive opportunity for this person to help drive the business forward, and embed themselves within the operation, understand the issues that affect pricing, production, sales etc.
• Act as a key business partner to commercial, sales, and operations teams, offering input on pricing, contracts, and commercial decisions.
• Willing to get under the skin of the business – from the factory floor to customer pricing models.
• Oversee cost control and profitability, identifying opportunities to improve margins, manage operating costs, and drive financial efficiency.
• Ensure internal controls, compliance, and financial standards are upheld, while streamlining and automating processes for greater accuracy and speed.
• Manage and develop a team of financial accountants, providing leadership, mentoring, and technical guidance.

Key Requirements:

• Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent).

• Demonstrated experience in a senior finance role with strategic and operational exposure, preferably with a manufacturing background.

• Proven track record of business partnering across commercial and operational functions.

• Strong analytical and forecasting capabilities, with a deep understanding of margin drivers and cost management.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with multiple stakeholders.

• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.

Package wise, the business are offering £70K-£75K, plus a bonus, private medical insurance, and 25 days holiday. A car allowance may be available as part of the total compensation, depending on experience and negotiation.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates