Financial Accounts Manager

HOB preston ltd; Preston; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic restaurant group in Preston is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to oversee financial operations across multiple sites. The role involves preparing financial statements, maintaining tax compliance, and managing budgeting processes. The ideal candidate will have a degree in accounting/finance and relevant industry experience. Competitive salary and growth opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Career growth opportunities

Staff discounts on food and beverages

Qualifications

• 3+ years' progressive accounting/finance experience, including management reporting.
• Experience in hospitality or restaurant industry is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the general ledger and reconcile control accounts.
• Prepare monthly and annual financial statements.
• Manage accounts receivable and credit control.
• Ensure compliance with HMRC, VAT, PAYE.
• Implement internal controls and manage accounting systems.

Skills

Knowledge of UK accounting standards

Advanced Excel

Problem-solving abilities

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Management

AAT Level 4, ACCA, CIMA preferred

Tools

Xero

Sage

QuickBooks

Job description

Overview

Purpose of the Role: To manage the full accounting and finance function for a two-site restaurant business. The role ensures accurate financial records, robust internal controls, and timely management information to support both strategic and operational decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the general ledger and reconcile control accounts, bank statements, and inter-company balances.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in line with UK GAAP and IFRS.
• Produce management accounts, cash-flow reports, and performance dashboards for senior leadership.
• Lead the annual budgeting process across both restaurant sites.
• Analyse variances against budget, providing narrative explanations and corrective recommendations.
• Prepare rolling forecasts to inform business planning and investment decisions.
• Monitor, interpret, and forecast cash flows to ensure adequate liquidity.
• Manage accounts receivable and credit control, maintaining strong customer and supplier relationships.
• Negotiate payment terms and maintain credit facilities with banks and lenders.
• Ensure compliance with HMRC, VAT, PAYE, and other statutory requirements.
• Oversee preparation and submission of tax computations and statutory returns, including MTD.
• Liaise with internal and external auditors to meet audit and regulatory requirements.
• Implement and review internal controls to safeguard assets and mitigate risks.
• Manage accounting systems (e.g., Xero/Sage), ensuring cyber-security and data integrity.
• Introduce automation and cloud-based solutions to improve efficiency.
• Provide financial analysis and advice to improve profitability, control costs, and guide strategy.
• Contribute to business plans and long-term financial strategy with evidence-based recommendations.
• Analyse competitor and market data to identify trends and opportunities.
• Recruit, train, and mentor accounting or finance staff as required.
• Set KPIs, monitor results, and promote a culture of professional ethics and continuous improvement.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards, tax law, and financial regulations.
• Advanced Excel and accounting software proficiency (Xero, Sage, QuickBooks).
• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills; able to explain financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Management.
• A recognised UK or international accounting qualification (e.g., AAT Level 4, ACCA, CIMA) strongly preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years’ progressive accounting/finance experience, including management reporting, budgeting, and compliance.
• Familiarity with UK accounting standards and HMRC requirements.
• Experience in the hospitality or restaurant industry is desirable.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Career growth opportunities within a fast-developing restaurant group.
• A dynamic, supportive working environment.
• Staff discounts on food and beverages.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter via Indeed. We welcome applications from finance professionals who are eager to make a meaningful impact in the hospitality industry.