Financial Controller – Manufacturing | Southend, Essex Broster Buchanan is proud to be partnering with a dynamic and growing manufacturing business in Southend, Essex, as they seek an experienced and driven Financial Controller to join their finance team on an initial 6 month contract that could go permanent. This role is open to part-qualified/qualified professionals (ACCA/CIMA/ACA or equivalent) or individuals qualified by experience, offering the opportunity to work closely with the senior leadership team and business owners in shaping the company's financial landscape.This is a pivotal position for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment and is eager to make a meaningful impact. The role is based on-site five days a week and is suited to candidates with manufacturing experience, though this is not essential. A strong understanding of costing projects, preparing bills of material/price lists, and managing ISO9001 audits will be highly advantageous. Key Responsibilities:Month-End and Financial Reporting

Oversee the entire month-end process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
Prepare comprehensive management accounts packs for board-level review.
Complete accruals, prepayments, balance sheet reconciliations, and salary journals.
Maintain reconciling schedules and support documentation for accounts.
Manage the fixed assets register, including depreciation schedules.
Produce monthly revenue and cost recognition analysis, incorporating WIP management.
Deliver month-end variance analysis and insightful financial narratives for the board.
Conduct departmental margin analysis, tracking monthly and year-to-date results.
Supervise payroll processes and manage intercompany reconciliations.
Prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns.
Oversee and finalise bank reconciliations.

Working Capital Management

Lead and review accounts payable and receivable processes.
Authorise and approve payment runs.
Manage cash flow and treasury operations, ensuring liquidity and efficiency.

Production and Project Costing

Collaborate with the production delivery team to establish strong financial controls.
Supervise the job budgeting process to safeguard project margins.
Oversee the preparation of detailed cost reports for larger projects, including variance analysis.
Ensure accurate and timely costing of projects, bills of material, and price lists.
Attend project start-up and close-down meetings to provide financial oversight.
Ensure all projects are governed by appropriate contracts and financial agreements.

Compliance and Audit Management

Play a key role in managing ISO9001 audits, ensuring compliance with quality standards.
Prepare annual statutory accounts, including supporting schedules.
Owning the annual budgeting and forecasting process

Leadership and Additional Responsibilities

Manage and mentor one team member, overseeing their day-to-day activities.
Provide weekly sales pipeline reporting to the leadership team.
Handle the company’s taxation affairs, including VAT returns for the group.

What We’re Looking For:The ideal candidate will be a proactive financial professional with a meticulous eye for detail and a proven ability to handle diverse responsibilities. Previous manufacturing experience is desirable but not mandatory. Exposure to stock accounting, project costing, and managing ISO9001 audits will set candidates apart.This role offers a fantastic opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment, contributing directly to the growth and success of the business.If this sounds like the next step in your career, we’d love to hear from you!

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