Contract jobs in Southend-on-Sea

We are the internal recruitment partner for our client, an established and internationally focused science and manufacturing SME, who are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Finance Manager to take ownership of the finance function and support the continued success of the business on an interim basis (12 months with potential to move to a permanent role subject to review)

With an established international customer and supplier base, this is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional who enjoys working in an SME environment where they can make a real difference.

As a trusted finance partner to the Directors, you'll play a key role in supporting business performance, driving informed decision making and contributing to the company's long-term growth and success.

You'll work closely with the Directors, operational teams, external accountants, HMRC, customers and suppliers to ensure the smooth and effective running of the business.

About the role:

Reporting to the Directors, you'll take responsibility for the day-to-day finance function, ensuring accurate financial records, effective reporting, compliance and strong financial controls.

This is a varied and hands on position, covering bookkeeping, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, VAT, credit control, stock, fixed assets and statutory accounts.

You'll also support the wider business through management reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cost saving initiatives and process improvements, alongside coordinating elements of office management and international logistics.

 Key Responsibilities:

Maintain accurate financial records, including recording income, expenses and payroll; reconcile bank statements and financial accounts; and process journals.
Administer and process the UK monthly payroll, including joiners, leavers, changes, benefits, absence, BACS payments, payslips, HMRC requirements, tax codes and year-end processing.
Manage accounts payable, including the purchase order and bill approval process and payment of bills, and manage accounts receivable, including customer invoicing.
Issue customer statements and manage the collection of overdue accounts.
Calculate, file and process monthly VAT payments and reclaims.
Review daily stock journals from the Xero-MRPeasy integration and work with production staff to maintain accurate stock records.
Maintain the fixed asset register and depreciation records.
Prepare financial and other reports as required, including WEEE reporting, insurance renewal information, and sales and purchase commission reports.
Work with the company's accountants to prepare and process annual statutory accounts, tax returns and tax credit claims.
Support the day-to-day running of the office, including ordering office supplies, coordinating maintenance and service providers, and assisting with general office administration to ensure the smooth operation of the business and that office facilities are maintained to a professional standard.Additional Responsibilities:

Manage Xero and its integrations, including banking, purchase order and invoice approval and MRP systems, and maintain knowledge of systems and processes as they develop.
Support the directors with management accounts, budgets and forecasts, identifying cost savings, financial trends and areas for improvement, and contribute to the development and improvement of financial practices, policies and procedures.
Coordinate and organise company logistics, including procurement, subcontracting, distribution and temporary exports for exhibitions; negotiate rates and manage shipping suppliers, carriers and freight forwarders.
Ensure all international shipping documentation and import/export declarations comply with customs laws and global trade regulations.The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:

We're looking for an experienced finance professional who is confident working independently and taking ownership of a broad range of financial responsibilities.

Previous bookkeeping experience, preferably within an SME.
Strong experience using Xero.
Advanced Excel skills.
Strong knowledge and experience of VAT.
Excellent IT and Microsoft Office skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Experience with international trade and multi-currency transactions would be advantageous.
Experience of processing payroll.
MAAT, IAB, ICB or equivalent qualification.
Live within a commutable distance to the offices based in Rochester Most importantly, you'll be someone who enjoys being hands-on, solving problems and contributing to the wider success of the business.

In return we are offering:

Competitive salary £45,000 - £55,000, depending on experience
Contract length: 12 months (with the potential for moving to a permanent role subject to review)
Working hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with a 30-minute unpaid break
Holiday entitlement: 33 days per year, inclusive of bank and public holidays
Pension: Employer contribution of 7.5%
Death in Service: Available, subject to eligibility
Permanent Health Insurance: Available, subject to eligibilityThis is an excellent opportunity to join an established international business in a role where you'll have genuine responsibility and visibility.

Interested? Then APPLY now for immediate consideration