We are recruiting an experienced, hands-on Financial Controller or Finance Manager to join an established manufacturing business in Blackburn. The company has an annual turnover of approximately £10 million, employs around 60 people and is entering an important period of financial improvement and development. The existing finance structure includes ledger clerks alongside the support of a Fractional Finance Director. The successful candidate will initially join on a temporary basis for three months. However, there is a strong likelihood that the position will develop into a permanent appointment with progression to FD over time. Immediate availability is essential, or you must be able to start at very short notice. The role Your immediate priority will be to lead the implementation of Sage 50, ensuring the system is correctly established and capable of supporting accurate, timely financial reporting. Alongside the Sage 50 implementation, you will introduce appropriate financial controls, reporting processes and measures across the business. This is a hands-on position requiring someone comfortable taking ownership of both system implementation and day-to-day financial management. You will work closely with the Fractional Finance Director, preparing reliable financial information and monthly management accounts for FD review and sign-off. Key responsibilities Lead the implementation and configuration of Sage 50 Review existing finance processes and introduce appropriate controls and measures Establish accurate and dependable financial reporting procedures Take ownership of short- and medium-term cash-flow management and forecasting Prepare monthly management accounts for review and sign-off by the Fractional Finance Director Produce supporting analysis, reconciliations and commentary Monitor working capital, including debtors, creditors and cash requirements Support the business through its year-end accounting process Liaise with the Fractional Finance Director, external accountants and other professional advisers Support VAT registration requirements where necessary Prepare and submit accurate VAT returns Oversee and support the existing ledger clerks Improve the accuracy, consistency and timeliness of financial information Identify opportunities to strengthen processes, controls and management reporting Assist senior management with financial information and commercial decision-making About you You will be an experienced and practical finance professional who can quickly assess the current position, establish priorities and begin making improvements. You must have: Previous experience implementing Sage 50 within a business Strong cash-flow management and forecasting experience Experience preparing complete monthly management accounts A good understanding of financial controls, reconciliations and reporting processes Experience supporting year-end accounts Knowledge of VAT registration, VAT accounting and VAT returns The confidence to work closely with a Fractional Finance Director and senior management The ability to oversee and support transactional finance staff A hands-on approach and willingness to become involved in the detail Immediate availability or the ability to begin at very short notice Experience within manufacturing, engineering or a similarly operational SME environment would be particularly beneficial. Applications are welcomed from qualified, part-qualified and qualified-by-experience finance professionals who can demonstrate the necessary practical experience. If you are immediately available and have personally implemented Sage 50, we would be pleased to hear from you.
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