Assistant Finance Manager

4766506
  • Job type

    Permanent
  • Location

    Exeter
  • Working Pattern

    Full-time
  • Specialism

    Part Qualified Accountant
  • Industry

    Manufacturing & Production
  • Pay

    £35,000
  • Closing date

    6 Feb 2026

Assistant Finance Manager – Exeter

Your new company

A long‑established and values‑driven organisation with strong roots in its sector is seeking a Deputy Finance Manager to join the team in a key role. The business operates in a hands‑on, product‑focused environment and offers a supportive culture with clear development opportunities.

Your new role

You will work closely with the current Finance Manager in a structured succession plan, with the aim of taking full responsibility for the finance function. Your role will include:
  • Supporting and gradually taking ownership of day‑to‑day financial operations including AP/AR, payroll and banking.
  • Preparing monthly management accounts, cash flow forecasts and financial reporting.
  • Assisting with budgeting, forecasting and performance analysis.
  • Managing VAT, PAYE, pensions and other statutory returns.
  • Working with external accountants and supporting year‑end processes.
  • Providing financial insight across the business to aid decision‑making.
  • Maintaining and improving finance systems and processes (including Xero or similar).
This is a broad, hands-on finance role with full end‑to‑end responsibility following the succession period

What you'll need to succeed

  • AAT qualification, part‑qualified (CIMA/ACCA/ACA), or strong QBE experience.
  • Solid experience in a hands-on finance role with clear ownership of finance processes.
  • Confidence in producing management accounts and cash flow forecasts independently.
  • Strong technical understanding of VAT, PAYE, pensions and financial controls.
  • Ability to manage a standalone finance function after the 12‑month transition.
  • Good Excel and accounting systems skills (Xero advantageous).
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain financial information to non‑finance colleagues.
  • A proactive, organised and commercially minded approach.
  • An interest in food/production/rural sectors is desirable.

What you'll get in return

  • A clear pathway to Finance Manager within 12 months.
  • A high‑autonomy role with genuine ownership and visibility.
  • Opportunity to work closely with the senior management team.
  • Broad exposure across all areas of finance.
  • Company pension, employee discounts and free on-site parking.
  • The chance to join a stable, well‑established business with strong values and long‑term commitment to its people.

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Apply for this job

Talk to Samuel Gorton, the specialist consultant managing this position

Located in Exeter, Office G20, Brook House,, Winslade Park Ave, Manor Drive,Telephone 01392348871
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