About the role
Manchester, UK
Pickles Recruitment
Finance Manager - SME Manufacturing
Location: Bury
Salary: £35,000 - £50,000 depending on experience
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Working Arrangement: Fully site-based, Monday to Friday
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced Finance Manager to take ownership of the finance function within a successful and growing SME manufacturing business.
This is a varied, hands-on position offering significant autonomy and the opportunity to play a key role within the wider management team. You will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the finance function, producing accurate financial information and supporting senior management with commercial insight and decision-making.
The successful candidate will be comfortable working independently, taking ownership and getting involved across all areas of finance within an SME environment.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare monthly management accounts, including P&L, balance sheet and cash flow reporting
Manage sales ledger, purchase ledger and credit control activities
Oversee payroll administration, pensions and statutory deductions
Ensure compliance with VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax and HMRC requirements
Monitor cash flow and support financial forecasting
Develop and maintain robust financial controls and processes
Support budgeting, forecasting and variance analysis
Provide accurate financial reporting and commercial insight to senior management
Assist with manufacturing cost analysis and margin reporting
Liaise with external auditors, accountants and professional advisors
Maintain accurate HR records and associated administration
Act as the internal point of contact for IT-related matters
Identify opportunities to improve financial processes and controls
Support the wider business with financial information and analysis as required About You
We are looking for an organised, commercially aware and experienced finance professional who is confident taking ownership of a finance function within an SME environment.
Essential Requirements
AAT qualified, part-qualified CIMA/ACCA, or qualified by experience
Experience producing monthly management accounts within an SME environment
Strong understanding of VAT, PAYE and HMRC compliance
Experience with cash flow management and forecasting
Budgeting and variance analysis experience
Payroll administration experience, including pensions
Strong Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office skills
Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across all levels of a business
Able to work independently and manage competing priorities Desirable
Previous experience within a manufacturing or production environment
Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
Experience with manufacturing cost analysis and margin reporting Full training will be provided on Business Central, so previous experience with the system is desirable rather than essential.
What We Offer
Competitive salary of £35,000 - £50,000 depending on experience
Pension scheme
28 days' holiday including bank holidays
Modern office and manufacturing facilities
Free on-site parking
Friendly and supportive working environment
Opportunity to make a genuine impact within a growing SME
Long-term career development opportunities
Varied role with significant autonomy and responsibility Working Hours & Location
Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm
This is a fully site-based position in Bury
Reference: https://diversejobsmatter.co.uk/job/26126195/finance-manager/ · Posted 9 hours ago · Closes 3 Oct 2026 · Listed via DIVERSEJOBSMATTER LIMITED