Finance Manager

A private equity backed precision engineering group, based south of Bristol, is looking for a Finance Manager to take ownership of the finance function of its operating company.

We supply machined components into the aerospace and defence supply chain. Following a change of ownership in 2026, we are building the finance capability to match the next stage of the group’s growth. The role also supports a planned transition as the existing Finance Manager moves towards retirement, so there will be a proper handover and time to get under the skin of the business before evolving how the function works.

This is a broad, hands-on role. You will own the monthly close, prepare management accounts, file VAT, run payroll and pensions, and be the senior finance presence for a business of around 30 people. You will also help strengthen cost accounting and margin visibility, using production and operational data to give the business clearer insight into job, product and customer profitability. You will also pick up HR administration and a range of office responsibilities that come with a business this size — variety is part of the job, not an inconvenience. Duties and responsibilities

What you'll be doing

Owning the monthly management accounts, VAT returns and payroll end to end

Developing cost accounting, product costing and customer margin reporting from production data

Managing banking relationships, cash visibility and finance-related queries

Liaising with external accountants and tax advisers on year-end, tax and statutory matters

Acting as a finance business partner to the company, supporting better commercial and operational decisions

Working closely with a supportive, experienced Group Chief Financial Officer

Inheriting a thorough handover from a long-serving Finance Manager

Experience and qualifications

What we're looking for

A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) or finalist — we will also consider candidates qualified by experience

Hands-on experience of a month-end close and monthly management accounts

Payroll and pension administration experience

Comfort with Sage (or similar accounting software), Excel, and an interest in using AI tools to work smarter

Ideally, experience in a manufacturing, engineering or other production environment, including cost accounting or margin analysis

Benefits

Salary £55,000–£65,000 depending on experience

Participation in Company discretionary bonus scheme.

Free on-site parking.

Permanent, full time, based on site with flexibility once established. Company culture

Why this role: this is a chance to make a visible difference in a well-invested, ambitious engineering business — not by starting from scratch, but by building on a strong base.

You will have genuine ownership of the finance function, the backing to improve how things work, and the support of a great team around you, including an experienced Group CFO and people who know the business inside out.

As the group grows, the role can grow with it.

Selection Process

We will be shortlisting applications on an ongoing basis. If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to a pre-screening interview with a member of the team. Successful candidates will then progress to a final competency-based interview, along with an opportunity to meet the team and learn more about the company.