Explore and Apply for Assistant Finance Manager jobs in Southampton, United Kingdom

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

• 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).

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.