Finance Manager

Finance Manager - Strategic & Hands-On Role (standalone role)
Colchester, Essex - Full-Time - Salary negotiable (scale disclosed on application)

WE Talent is pleased to be supporting our client, a respected and growing small business based in Essex, in their search for a capable and dependable Finance Manager.

This role is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional who enjoys balancing high-level oversight with hands-on involvement. It’s well suited to someone who values fast pace of work with attention to detail, and taking a methodical, consistent approach to maintaining robust financial systems.

Working as part of a small, committed office team, you will lead all aspects of the finance function - from payroll and invoicing to forecasting, reporting, and advising on strategic decisions. A clear focus on cashflow and credit control will be essential in supporting the ongoing stability and success of the business.

About the Role

As Finance Manager, you'll be the key financial contact across the business. Your role will involve regular interaction with both operational and leadership teams to ensure financial performance stays on track and decisions are supported by accurate, timely data.

This is a role that requires initiative, precision, and excellent organisational skills. You will be responsible for ensuring the finance function operates efficiently day-to-day, while also contributing to longer-term planning and improvements.

Key Focus Areas:

• Cashflow monitoring and forecasting

• Credit control and debtor management

• Monthly financial reporting and oversight

• Payroll and employee-related financials

• Accurate record keeping and regulatory compliance

• Maintaining and improving systems in Xero

• Overseeing purchase and sales processes, ensuring accuracy and timely invoicing

• Managing supplier payments and maintaining oversight of financial transactions

• Working closely with project and operational teams to ensure billing reflects current workstreams

• Taking ownership of cashflow planning and monitoring

• Managing customer accounts and proactively supporting credit control activity

• Maintaining visibility of outstanding payments and working with stakeholders to ensure timely resolution

• Managing the payroll process from preparation to approval

• Ensuring employee-related financial records are accurate and up to date

• Overseeing compliance with pension and HMRC requirements

• Preparing monthly reporting packs to support informed decision-making

• Supporting VAT returns, year-end accounts, and other compliance needs

• Maintaining clear and accurate records across all financial systems

• Working with the leadership team to support planning and investment decisions

• Advising on cost control, budgeting, and financial risk

• Representing finance in internal meetings and with external contacts such as accountants, brokers or insurers

What We’re Looking For:

• Experience in a finance leadership role within a small business environment

• Strong understanding of cashflow management and credit control

• Proficiency with Xero and general financial reporting

• Confident in both strategic discussions and hands-on accounting work

• Reliable, methodical, and detail-oriented with strong communication skills

• Comfortable working independently and with others across the business

To apply, please submit your CV or contact WE Talent for a confidential conversation.

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