Finance Manager

Armstrong Fluid Technology; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading firm in fluid-flow technology is seeking a Finance Manager to oversee financial operations and manage reporting, budgeting, and compliance to facilitate strategic decisions. Applicants should have a degree in Finance or Accounting, relevant qualifications, and experience in a manufacturing environment. This role offers the opportunity to be part of a global community dedicated to innovation and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in finance or management accounting within manufacturing/engineering.
• Proven leadership experience managing finance teams.
• Experience with UK VAT compliance and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day financial operations and manage financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
• Provide financial analysis and insights for strategic decision-making.

Skills

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or related field

Professional accounting qualification (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, CPA)

Job description

Imagine working at the forefront of innovation in fluid-flow technology, with over 1,400 colleagues across the globe, and contributing to a legacy of excellence that spans eight manufacturing facilities on four continents. Armstrong Fluid Technology is more than just a leader in our industry; we are a community of the brightest and most creative minds, driven by a shared mission to engineer the future and safeguard our planet.

As part of our team, you'll be immersed in an environment that fosters growth, creativity, and collaboration. Here, you'll have the opportunity to push boundaries, tackle exciting challenges, and develop cutting-edge solutions that promote energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Every day offers the chance to make a meaningful contribution to a more sustainable future, driving innovations that help lower global carbon footprints. Together, we’re creating a legacy that goes beyond business—one that’s changing the world for the better.

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Finance Manager to oversee the day-to-day financial operations of our business. In this key role, you will be responsible for managing financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting and ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations. You will also support strategic decision-making by providing insightful financial analysis and partnering with stakeholders across the organisation. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and experience in managing manufacturing cost structures, inventory, and capital expenditures.

Key Accountabilities

Financial Planning, Analysis & Strategic Support

• Provide financial analysis and insights to support strategic decision-making and enhance business performance.
• Provide financial insights and strategic recommendations to senior management to support decision-making.
• Contribute to the development of monthly reporting decks and presentations.
• Collaborate with the FP&A team during budgeting and forecasting cycles.
• Actively partner with the Central European team to align financial strategies and share best practices.

Financial Operations & Compliance

• Take ownership of the month-end close process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness and seek opportunities for improvement and automation.
• Support the preparation of statutory accounts and act as the key liaison with external auditors during the year-end audit process.
• Maintain and strengthen internal controls, ensuring compliance with company policies and relevant financial regulations.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns for all UK entities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with tax regulations.
• Implement and maintain financial systems, controls and procedures.

Risk Management & Governance

• Conduct risk assessments and implement risk management strategies.

Team Leadership & Transformation

• Oversee the Finance Business Partner team, promoting professional development, accountability, and high performance.
• Lead or contribute to finance transformation initiatives, including system upgrades and process automation.

What We’re Looking For

To thrive in this role, you should bring:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or a related field.
• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ACA, CPA) is essential.
• Substantial experience in a finance or management accounting role within the manufacturing and/or engineering industries.
• Proven leader with experience managing a team of experienced Finance individuals.
• Experience with UK VAT compliance and reporting.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of financial reporting standards and financial planning processes.
• Knowledge of inventory control systems and BOM (Bill of Materials) structures.
• Strong understanding of supply chain and logistics finance.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and KPIs.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Handles sensitive financial data responsibly; committed to integrity and transparency.

Soft Skills

• Excellent communication, analytical, and leadership skills.
• Can explain financial concepts clearly to non-financial stakeholders and collaborate across departments.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and evolving environment.

Why Armstrong Fluid Technology?

By joining us, you’ll become part of a global community dedicated to pushing the boundaries of fluid-flow technology while upholding Armstrong's commitment to sustainability. You’ll have endless opportunities to learn, grow, and make a significant impact on the world. Together, we'll build tomorrow’s solutions today.