Finance Director
Department: Finance
Employment Type: Permanent – Full Time
Location: Manchester
Description
We’re looking for a commercially driven Finance Director to partner with the CEO and Partnership, leading financial strategy and transforming how the firm uses data, insight, and performance to drive growth.
This is a high-impact, strategic role, focused on driving commercial performance, enhancing decision-making, and evolving the finance function to support a modern, forward-looking firm.
Please note, this role can be based in Leeds, Halifax or Manchester; however, regular travel between all four office locations will be required.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with the CEO & leadership team to shape and deliver firm strategy
- Lead financial planning, forecasting, and performance insight
- Drive commercial decision-making through data‑led insight
- Build and develop a high‑performing finance team
- Improve systems, processes, and financial controls
- Deliver clear reporting across KPIs, profitability, and cashflow
- Lead external stakeholder relationships (auditors, banks, advisors)
- Oversee budgeting, audit, tax, payroll, and compliance
- Identify opportunities for efficiency, margin growth, and operational improvement
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Established Finance Director or a strong Head of Finance ready to step up
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Experience in professional services (legal/IP highly advantageous)
- Experience transforming finance functions, systems, and processes
- Experience improving finance functions, systems, and reporting
- Confident in influencing senior stakeholders and leadership
Benefits
We pride ourselves on being small and friendly enough for you to get to know everyone – but big enough to offer you great career prospects. At Appleyard Lees, you won’t feel like a number or just another cog in the wheel. We understand everyone is individual and offer a friendly and supportive place to work and learn.
We also offer:
- 34 hour working week, Monday – Friday
- Agile working
- A supportive and friendly place to work and learn
- Annual salary review
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Salary Exchange
- Life assurance
- Healthcare Cash Plan & Wellbeing App
- Group Income Protection
- Long Service Milestones
- Social outings
- Vouchers on Christmas, Birthdays and Special Occasions
- Charity events
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