Chief Financial Officer - Manufacturing

Our client is an established SME manufacturing company based in the UK, dedicated to innovation, quality, and growth. As the business continues to develop, they seek a strategic and hands-on Fractional Finance Director / Chief Financial Officer to provide high-level financial oversight and support business growth.

Role Overview:

As a Fractional FD/CFO, you will be responsible for shaping the financial strategy, ensuring robust financial controls, and driving profitability. This is a high-level strategic role with a focus on financial leadership, planning, and governance rather than day-to-day operational finance.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Strategy & Leadership

• Help develop and implement the company's financial strategy to support business growth.
• Provide financial insight and leadership to the senior management team.
• Support banking relationships and funding strategies.
• Evaluate and mitigate financial risks, ensuring long-term sustainability.
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and operational efficiency.

Financial Planning & Analysis

• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling processes.
• Monitor financial performance and provide high-level analysis and insights.
• Implement KPIs and dashboards for financial reporting.
• Provide strategic support on pricing strategies and cost structures.

Financial Oversight & Compliance

• Oversee financial reporting, ensuring compliance.
• Ensure robust financial controls, policies, and governance frameworks.
• Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies as needed.
• Provide high-level oversight of cash flow and working capital.

Commercial & Business Support

• Act as a strategic partner to operational teams to improve financial efficiencies and margins.
• Provide financial guidance on business growth opportunities and exit planning.
• Support management with financial due diligence for any new projects/investments.

Trust & Ownership Structuring

• Provide guidance on establishing and managing Employer Ownership Trust.
• Work with legal and tax advisors to ensure compliance with HMRC regulations and tax benefits.
• Support valuation, financing, and governance structuring for ownership transitions.

Key Skills & Experience:

• Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Proven experience as an FD/CFO within an SME manufacturing environment.
• Exit planning / EOT experience.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience in financial strategy and business planning.
• Expertise in cash flow management, financial reporting, and cost control.
• Knowledge of UK tax regulations, compliance, and funding options.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels.

What’s on Offer?

• Flexible, fractional role (2 days per week).
• Opportunity to work with company founders and shape financial strategy in a market leading SME.
• Competitive day rate / part-time salary.