Finance Manager

Cental; Carlow; On-site; EUR 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Pension plan

Half-Day Fridays

Bike-to-work scheme

Career growth

Free parking

Job summary

Cental, a global provider of engineered modular solutions, seeks a Finance Manager to lead financial reporting, control and governance across sites. Located in Carlow, Ireland, you will partner with the CFO and senior teams to deliver accurate management accounts, statutory filings and robust financial processes.

You will oversee AP/AR/payroll, drive cost control, support audits, and foster continuous improvement while maintaining strong internal controls.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a finance manager with strong reporting.
• Experience in management accounts, balance sheet control and statutory reporting.
• Experience in AP, AR and payroll activities in engineering or project-based settings.

Responsibilities

• Assist in monthly management accounts, with commentary.
• Maintain fixed asset register, depreciation, and GL reconciliation.
• Prepare VAT and Intrastat returns in compliance with Irish rules.
• Oversee AP, AR and payroll processes and controls.
• Support year-end audit and liaise with external auditors.
• Drive internal controls and continuous improvement across finance.

Skills

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Organization

Attention to detail

Education

ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualification or equivalent

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Job description

Cental is a global supplier of fully designed, engineered, built and integrated modular and skid-mounted solutions for the Data Centre, Utilities, Life Sciences, and Oil & Gas markets. From our headquarters in Carlow, Ireland, we deliver comprehensive solutions for clients worldwide.

Our people are the foundation of our success. With three manufacturing facilities and a talented team of engineers, designers, project managers, and tradespeople, our team manages every detail, ensuring seamless delivery from initial design to final installation. We value teamwork, respect, and continuous improvement, creating a collaborative, innovative environment where everyone can reach their potential.

We also believe in celebrating achievements and recognising effort. From monthly quality and safety initiatives for breakfast treats and local tool vouchers, to company breakfasts, staff BBQs, and occasional outings, we bring people together to enjoy achievements and strengthen our team spirit.

Growth and learning are central to Cental. Whether you’re joining as an apprentice, graduate, or experienced professional, we provide training and development opportunities to help you build a rewarding, long-term career.

If you’re passionate about excellence, innovation, and teamwork, join us and be part of a company that’s engineering solutions and building futures.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Control

• Assist in preparation of monthly management accounts, including profit and loss, balance sheet, and cashflow, with clear and concise commentary
• Perform monthly balance sheet reconciliations, ensuring all accounts are fully supported, reviewed, and signed off in line with internal control requirements
• Maintain and control the fixed asset register, including:
• Recording additions, disposals, and transfers
• Calculating and posting depreciation in line with company policy
• Reconciling the fixed asset register to the general ledger
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of all financial records and reporting outputs
• Support the year-end audit process, acting as a key point of contact for external auditors

Statutory Compliance & Tax

• Prepare and submit VAT returns in accordance with Irish Revenue requirements
• Prepare and submit Intrastat returns accurately and on time
• Ensure compliance with all applicable statutory, tax, and regulatory obligations
• Support the CFO in managing external advisor relationships and regulatory queries

Cashflow & Working Capital

• Monitor and manage the company’s cashflow position, providing regular updates to the CFO
• Oversee accounts receivable and debtor management to ensure timely collection of funds
• Manage supplier payment cycles in line with agreed terms and internal cash control procedures

Functional Oversight (AP, AR, Purchasing & Payroll)

• Assist the CFO in overseeing the day-to-day operations of:
• Accounts Payable (AP)
• Accounts Receivable (AR)
• Purchasing (aligned to finance-controlled procurement processes)
• Payroll
• Ensure all transactions are appropriately authorised, accurately coded, and recorded
• Enforce adherence to company policies, internal controls, and approval frameworks
• Support resolution of issues across finance and procurement workflows

Procurement, Cost Control & Governance

• Work closely with the CFO and Purchasing Specialist to ensure:
• All purchase orders are raised by Finance on approved requisitions
• Expenditure is aligned to approved budgets and project cost controls
• Value-for-money principles are consistently applied
• Contribute to the development and enforcement of procurement controls and procedures
• Support supplier onboarding and ensure appropriate financial due diligence and controls are in place

Systems, Controls & Continuous Improvement

• Support the CFO in maintaining strong financial governance and control environments
• Identify and implement improvements in financial processes, reporting accuracy, and operational efficiency
• Ensure financial data integrity across systems and reports

Stakeholder Engagement & Support

• Work closely with the CFO and senior management team to provide financial insight and support decision-making
• Liaise with internal departments (operations, commercial, procurement) to ensure alignment on financial and cost matters
• Provide support and guidance to finance team members where required

Other Duties

• Support budgeting and forecasting processes
• Provide ad hoc financial analysis and reporting as required by the CFO
• Undertake any additional duties necessary to support the Finance function and wider business

Key Requirements

Experience

• Proven experience as a finance manager;
• Strong background in management accounts, balance sheet control, and statutory reporting
• Experience overseeing AP, AR and payroll activities
• Experience in an engineering, construction, or project-based environment is desirable

Qualifications

• ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified (or equivalent) preferred
• Strong technical knowledge of accounting standards and tax compliance

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and control
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and financial systems
• Strong understanding of internal controls, audit processes, and compliance requirements
• Ability to work collaboratively with senior stakeholders, particularly the CFO
• Clear and effective communication skills

Key Attributes

• High level of integrity and accountability
• Commercially aware with a proactive and solution-driven approach
• Process-oriented with a focus on continuous improvement
• Ability to operate effectively both independently and as part of a team

What We Offer

• Competitive Salary
• Pension Plan
• Half-Day Fridays
• Bike-to-Work Scheme
• Career Growth
• Free Parking