Sansetsu UK Ltd is seeking an experienced, hands‑on Finance Manager to lead the finance function across a small but growing group of companies. This role suits someone organised, commercially focused, and confident in a fast‑paced manufacturing/logistics environment. Full/part‑qualified or QBE applicants welcome.
We are looking for an individual who is full/part‑qualified or qualified by experience, with strong experience in manufacturing and ideally logistics, and excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Business Central is highly desirable, but strong ERP experience in a similar system will also be considered. You will manage a small finance team, strengthen internal controls, improve processes, and ensure accurate and timely financial reporting across multiple entities.
Key Responsibilities
Finance Operations & Reporting
- Oversee end‑to‑end accounting processes including PL, SL, reconciliations, fixed assets and general ledger maintenance.
- Maintain full control of weekly/monthly close processes (journals, accruals, prepayments, reconciliations).
- Produce timely management accounts, KPIs, variance analysis and monthly reporting.
- Ensure compliance, accuracy and efficiency across all finance operations.
- Manage cashflow, working capital and prepare regular cashflow forecasts.
- Coordinate internal/external audits and prepare supporting documentation.
- Support annual budgeting, forecasting and long‑term financial planning.
Systems & Process Improvement
- Ensure effective use of financial systems (including Microsoft Business Central) to improve accuracy and reduce manual work.
- Support users with system queries; contribute to automation and system enhancements.
- Enhance system integrity across inventory, production, logistics and sales modules.
- Standardise finance processes across business units and improve month‑end speed and reporting quality.
- Drive continuous improvement across controls, systems, reporting and internal processes.
Payroll, Pensions & Statutory Returns
- Oversee payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality and auditability.
- Oversee pension administration and ensure compliance with auto‑enrolment.
- Prepare VAT returns, Intrastat, EC Sales Lists and other statutory submissions.
Manufacturing & Logistics Finance
- Support and oversee cost accounting (COGS, overheads, labour costing, variances).
- Analyse scrap rates, operational efficiency, stock movements and cost‑saving opportunities.
- Support stock takes and reconcile results to financial records.
- Partner with production and warehouse teams to maintain accurate data.
- Provide financial oversight across logistics operations including driver costs, subcontractors, fleet/fuel usage and route profitability.
- Produce insight on utilisation, pallet movements, customer margins and operational efficiency; support logistics KPIs and cost control.
- Leadership & Cross‑Functional Support
- Lead, develop and support a small finance team.
- Partner with operational, commercial, procurement, warehousing and logistics teams.
- Provide real‑time, data‑driven insight to support decisions on performance, risk and opportunities.
- Support scenario planning and strategic initiatives.
- Communicate financial information clearly to non‑finance stakeholders.
Skills, Experience & Attributes
- AAT/ACCA/CIMA qualified, part‑qualified or QBE.
- Strong background in SME finance.
- Manufacturing experience essential; logistics experience advantageous.
- Advanced Excel and strong ERP skills (Business Central highly desirable).
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
- Highly organised with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
- Clear, confident communicator.
- Improvement‑focused, resilient and adaptable.
- Experienced in managing and developing a small team.
This role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact across a small but growing group of companies, with real visibility and ownership. If you’re looking to bring your expertise into an environment where your insight genuinely shapes how we work, we’d love to hear from you. We’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer — we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £50,000.00-£55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Application question(s):
- Are you based in the United Kingdom and able to work on-site in Milton Keynes, Mon-Fri
- Do you have AAT, ACCA, CIMA qualification or are you part qualified
- Do you have experience with cost accounting in a manufacturing environment
- Do you have experience managing or supervising a finance team
- Are you are able to work fully on site
Experience:
- SME Manufacturing: 5 years (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
