Finance Director

Chilworth Partnership are delighted to be retained by a market leading and growing SME in the FMCG sector, based in Essex. The business operates autonomously as part of a larger, international Group and have the aim of doubling revenue in the next five years. As part of this growth trajectory, the business is looking for a hands-on, commercially astute Finance Director to play a key part in this objective.

This rare and exciting opportunity will mould the finance function and is presented at an exciting stage of growth. As the business continues to expand its reach and market share, both domestically and internationally, there will be the chance to grow to CFO. 

Reporting to the Managing Director, responsibilities will include but not be limited to: 

Provide high quality, timely and insightful financial analysis on various aspects of the business to improve decision-making.
Ensure complete, accurate and transparent management accounts to enable budgetary review and more informed decision-making.
Improve the working capital requirement, including optimising the trade receivable and trade payables days.
Lead the relationship with the bank, strategically evolving the facilities available to improve the working capital efficiency in the business.
Structure the finance department for business growth, identifying new efficiencies towards improved reporting, finding the balance between software tools, automation and mentor individual capability.
Guide the Financial Reporting, Payroll, Accounts Payable and Credit Control teams to ensure that best practices and controls are in place, systems are improved, and reporting deadlines are achieved.
Lead the planning, communication, and execution of all external audit deliverables.
Develop and evolve effective tax planning strategies ensuring all statutory and tax reporting requirements are met on time.
Collaborate with the Commercial Director to implement KPIs for the commercial team that align with the company’s strategic initiative.
Monitor and manage the daily cash headroom to support fast supplier payments to ensure the flow of stock into the business is consummate to the sales targets for the week and the month.
Leads the annual budgeting exercise to produce a comprehensive financial budget that correctly reflects the business assumptions for the next year.
You will:

Be a fully qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA).
Have experience of leading change and growth in a senior finance position within an SME environment
Have previous experience of retail or manufacturing, improving commercial performance and profitability.
Ideally, have a strong blend of technical and commercial accounting, this role will span financial reporting, FP&A and commercial support.
Be comfortable operating in a hands-on role and be able to evidence action plans to ensure that financial objectives are achieved coupled with strong process development skills.
Have a proven background in the leadership, development and recruitment of finance teams.
The business have implemented a long term hybrid working model, with an expectation to be in the offices at least three days a week.

Chilworth Partnership Ltd (also trading as Venture Recruitment Partners) is a Recruitment Agency. By applying for this role, you are authorising us as a Recruitment Agency to contact you and to provide services and information relating to job hunting activities. Please see our