Head of Finance

JR United Kingdom; Penrith; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing food manufacturing business seeks an Interim Head of Finance for maternity cover, offering a critical leadership role for 4 months based in Penrith. The successful candidate will oversee finance operations, manage budgets, and provide financial clarity during a period of change. Qualified accountants with experience in fast-paced environments are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Fully qualified accountant with a strong background in financial leadership.
• Senior finance experience in food manufacturing or FMCG.
• Hands-on, proactive approach in a fast-moving SME environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead finance function and manage a small team.
• Deliver timely management accounts and financial analysis.
• Ensure compliance with statutory obligations and support decision-making.

Skills

Financial leadership

Operational finance

Budgeting and forecasting

Cash flow management

Communication

Education

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)

Job description

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Head of Finance (Interim – Maternity Cover)

• Are you a qualified accountant with a strong track record in financial leadership and operational finance?
• Do you thrive in fast-paced, hands-on environments within food manufacturing or FMCG?
• Are you ready to lead a finance function through a key transition period, delivering stability, insight, and impact?

MacGregor Black are partnering with a growing food manufacturing business on the search for an Interim Head of Finance to cover maternity leave. This is a 4-month contract based in Penrith, with an immediate start.

This is a critical leadership role offering the opportunity to maintain continuity and drive financial clarity during a period of change.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the finance function, managing a small team and overseeing daily operations
• Deliver timely, accurate management accounts, reports, and analysis to the senior team
• Own budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management during the maternity cover period
• Ensure compliance with statutory, tax, and audit obligations
• Act as a business partner to operational and commercial teams, supporting margin optimisation and cost control
• Provide clear, actionable financial insight to support decision-making
• Maintain and improve financial processes, systems, and controls
• Liaise with auditors, banks, and other external stakeholders

What Are We Looking For?

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
• Experience at a senior finance level within food manufacturing, FMCG, or related sectors
• Hands-on, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-moving SME environment
• Strong communicator with the ability to influence at senior levels
• Able to hit the ground running and commit to the full 4-month interim period

Please contact Carl Maw for full details.