Part-Time Financial Controller — SME Growth Partner (Onsite)

theparttimefinancepeople; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; On-site; GBP 234,000 - 290,000; Part time

Job summary

The Part-Time Finance People in Bedfordshire is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to work directly with SME owners on a part-time, self-employed basis. You will act as a trusted finance partner, delivering robust financial management and actionable commercial insights to drive profitability and cash flow.

The role requires two days per week onsite, a hands-on attitude, and strong accounting knowledge (Xero, budgeting, forecasting).

Qualifications

• ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified, or qualified by experience.
• Minimum 3 years UK-based experience as Financial Controller.
• Experience supporting SMEs and owner‑managed businesses.
• Strong management accounting and board reporting experience.
• Extensive budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management expertise.
• Excellent commercial awareness and business partnering skills.
• Experience improving financial controls, processes, and reporting.
• Ability to work independently and manage client relationships confidently.
• Strong working knowledge of Xero.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and present monthly management accounts and board packs.
• Deliver KPI reporting and performance analysis.
• Analyse revenue, margins, profitability, stock, and costs.
• Provide commercial recommendations to improve profitability and performance.
• Translate financial data into practical actions for leadership teams.
• Lead budgeting and annual planning processes.
• Produce rolling forecasts and scenario models.
• Develop and maintain detailed cash flow forecasts.
• Identify risks, opportunities, and key drivers.
• Support strategic planning and investment decisions.
• Work closely with business owners and senior stakeholders.
• Assist with growth planning, pricing strategies, profitability reviews, and investment opportunities.
• Build confidence in financial reporting across the wider business.
• Review and strengthen financial controls and governance.
• Improve reporting processes and finance systems.
• Ensure robust controls around purchasing, cash management, stock, and operations.
• Drive continuous improvement and finance best practice.
• Support, develop, and mentor finance team members.

Skills

Financial analysis

Business partnering

Commercial awareness

Independent worker

Education

ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent

Tools

Xero

Sage

QuickBooks

Job description

The Part-Time Finance People in Bedfordshire is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to work directly with SME owners on a part-time, self-employed basis. You will act as a trusted finance partner, delivering robust financial management and actionable commercial insights to drive profitability and cash flow.

The role requires two days per week onsite, a hands-on attitude, and strong accounting knowledge (Xero, budgeting, forecasting).