Strategic Finance Manager — Multi-Site Growth

Complete Childcare Ltd; Reading; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Part time

Job summary

Complete Childcare Ltd. is hiring a Finance Manager to lead financial management across 17 nursery locations. You will report to the Group CEO and shape budgets, cash flow, and financial controls in a fast-paced, multi-site environment.

The role requires strong accounting knowledge, advanced Excel, and experience with Xero/Sage/QuickBooks. You will partner with Operations and HR on budgeting and capital projects.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in finance management within an SME or multi-site environment.
• Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards and payroll processes.
• Advanced Excel and financial modelling skills.
• Familiarity with accounting software such as Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks.
• Excellent analytical, organisational, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day finance operations including accounts payable, receivable, bank reconciliations, and month-end close.
• Prepare monthly management accounts, variance analysis, and commentary for leadership.
• Develop annual budgets and rolling forecasts in collaboration with Operations and HR.
• Monitor cash flow and working capital; implement strategies to optimise liquidity.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations, and statutory reporting.
• Cross-check payroll accuracy and timeliness for a workforce of 300 staff, liaising with HR on changes and compliance.
• Maintain and improve finance systems including accounting software and procurement tools.
• Implement controls to reduce errors, fraud risk, and inefficiencies.
• Support digital transformation initiatives across finance and procurement.
• Prepare for and manage external audits; ensure timely filing of statutory accounts.
• Maintain compliance with childcare sector regulations impacting finance, including funding and grants.
• Provide financial insights to support strategic decisions and operational performance.
• Partner with Operations and HR to manage labour costs, occupancy forecasting, and capital projects.

Skills

Finance management

UK payroll

Advanced Excel

Financial modelling

Analytical skills

Education

Accounting qualification

Tools

Xero

Sage

QuickBooks

Job description

Complete Childcare Ltd. is hiring a Finance Manager to lead financial management across 17 nursery locations. You will report to the Group CEO and shape budgets, cash flow, and financial controls in a fast-paced, multi-site environment.

The role requires strong accounting knowledge, advanced Excel, and experience with Xero/Sage/QuickBooks. You will partner with Operations and HR on budgeting and capital projects.