Finance Director – PE-Backed Manufacturing SME
Location: Greater Manchester
Salary: c.£100,000 + equity potential
The Opportunity
We are partnering with a private equity-backed manufacturing SME in Greater Manchester to appoint a commercially driven Finance Director. This is a pivotal role within a high-growth business, offering the opportunity to work closely with an experienced leadership team and investors to drive scale, performance, and long-term value creation.
This role is ideally suited to an ambitious, hands-on finance leader looking to step into (or build on) their first Finance Director position within a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
The Role
Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with private equity stakeholders, you will take full ownership of the finance function while playing a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the business.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead and develop the finance function, ensuring robust financial controls and reporting
- Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and Board, supporting decision-making and growth plans
- Drive budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes
- Improve financial visibility, KPIs, and operational performance
- Support and lead on potential M&A activity, integrations, and future exit planning
- Enhance systems, processes, and reporting to support scalability
- Work closely with operations, supply chain, and production teams to improve margin and efficiency
- Manage banking relationships, cash flow, and funding requirements
The Candidate
We are looking for a high-potential, commercially minded finance professional with a strong track record in manufacturing or industrial environments.
Key requirements:
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
- Experience within manufacturing, engineering, or a related sector
- Background in a PE-backed, high-growth, or SME environment preferred
- Ambitious, entrepreneurial mindset with the drive to progress and make an impact
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to influence at Board level
- Hands-on approach – comfortable operating both strategically and operationally
- Experience improving systems, processes, and financial controls
- Exposure to M&A or investor environments would be advantageous
Why Join?
- Opportunity to play a key role in a PE-backed growth journey
- Direct exposure to investors and strategic decision-making
- Real scope to shape the finance function and wider business
- Fast-paced, entrepreneurial culture with significant progression potential
- Equity participation aligned with value creation
Package
- Salary: c.£100,000
- Performance-related bonus
- Equity / incentive scheme
- Additional benefits
Please apply with your most recent CV
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