Finance Manager

Zenith People; Jarrow; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to join a growing business in Jarrow. The role will involve implementing Xero accounting software, managing project costing, and supporting strategic financial decision-making. Ideal candidates will have experience in finance roles within SMEs and strong analytical skills. This position offers a pivotal opportunity to drive financial performance and improve cost efficiencies.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar finance role within an SME.
• Strong understanding of project costing, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the setup and integration of Xero accounting software.
• Analyse costs associated with individual projects.
• Create and maintain annual budgets and rolling forecasts.

Skills

Project costing

Budgeting

Forecasting

Financial analysis

Education

ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified

Tools

Xero

Excel

Job description

Overview

This is an excellent opportunity to join a business that continues to grow year-on-year. Our client is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to bring their financial operations in-house. This role will be pivotal in implementing Xero accounting software, analysing project profitability, and supporting strategic decision-making through budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis.

You will work closely with operational teams to ensure financial visibility across all projects, helping the business identify cost-saving opportunities and improve overall financial performance.

Responsibilities

• System Implementation & Management
• Lead the setup and integration of Xero accounting software.
• Migrate existing Excel-based records into Xero and establish best practices.

• Project & Job Costing
• Analyse costs associated with individual Ventilation projects.
• Break down and categorise costs to provide detailed visibility into each component of project spend.
• Track profitability and identify underperforming jobs.
• Develop dashboards and reports to monitor financial performance.

• Budgeting & Forecasting
• Create and maintain annual budgets and rolling forecasts.
• Work closely with MD heads to align financial plans with operational goals.

• Cost Analysis & Financial Insights
• Identify cost-saving opportunities across projects and departments.
• Provide financial modelling and scenario analysis to support business decisions.
• Advise on pricing strategies and margin improvement.
• Support strategic planning with financial data and recommendations.

Requirements

• Proven experience in a similar finance role within an SME
• Strong understanding of project costing, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Experience implementing or managing Xero or similar accounting software.
• Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with financial reporting tools.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified (or qualified by experience)