Your new company

International PE-backed FMCG group.

Your new role

We are looking for a highly organised and technically skilled Finance Manager to lead our external audit process and ensure the highest standards of financial reporting. This is a pivotal role within our finance team, ideal for an ACA‑qualified professional with strong technical accounting expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and a disciplined, deadline‑driven approach. You will play a key part in safeguarding reporting integrity and driving excellence across our financial operations. Please note, only candidates with a notice period of one month or less will be considered for this role.

• External audit ownership – Lead the full annual audit cycle from planning through completion.
• Primary auditor liaison – Serve as the main point of contact for external auditors, ensuring smooth communication.
• Audit schedule preparation – Prepare and review all supporting schedules with a focus on accuracy and completeness.
• Timeline management – Drive audit timelines, proactively managing deliverables to meet all deadlines.
• Query resolution – Address audit queries promptly and effectively to maintain momentum.

• Statutory accounts oversight – Oversee the preparation of statutory accounts in line with IFRS/UK GAAP.
• Technical reporting quality – Ensure financial statements are technically robust and compliant.
• Complex accounting review – Review and advise on complex accounting treatments across the business.
• Policy development – Maintain and enhance accounting policies, ensuring consistency and best practice.

• Accounting expertise – Provide guidance on complex accounting matters, including new standards and regulatory changes.
• Standard implementation – Lead the adoption and integration of new accounting standards where required.
• Regulatory compliance – Ensure full compliance with all relevant financial regulations and reporting obligations.

• Financial control framework – Establish and maintain strong internal financial controls.
• Process improvement – Identify and deliver enhancements to finance processes and workflows.
• Year‑round audit readiness – Maintain a continuous state of audit readiness, not just at year‑end.

• Senior leadership collaboration – Partner closely with senior finance leaders and wider business stakeholders.
• Clear financial communication – Present complex financial information in a clear, concise, and accessible manner.
• Relationship building – Develop strong, trusted relationships with internal teams and external advisors.

What you'll get in return

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 Georgia Wilson at Hays Manchester 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.