Role Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated and commercially astute Accounts Manager / Finance Director (AAT Qualified) to lead the finance function of a dynamic, fast-growing global fashion jewellery brand.
This role requires full responsibility for financial operations, ensuring robust financial controls, accurate reporting, and strong cash flow management, while managing a small finance team including bookkeeping, credit control, and payroll functions.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Prepare and deliver monthly management accounts with analysis, commentary, and actionable insights
- Oversee year-end accounts and liaise with external accountants/auditors
- Produce budgets, forecasts, and financial projections aligned with business goals
- Monitor profitability, margins, and cost control, particularly across product lines and markets
- Ensure compliance with UK accounting standards and HMRC requirements
Team Leadership & Oversight
- Manage and supervise:
- Bookkeeper (transactional processing, reconciliations)/ Credit Controller (accounts receivable, collections)
- Payroll (staff payroll, compliance)
- Provide guidance, training, and performance management to the team.
- Implement efficient workflows and financial processes
Cash Flow & Credit Control
- Maintain strong cash flow management and forecasting
- Oversee credit control strategy, ensuring timely collections and minimising bad debt
- Monitor debtor days and implement improvements where needed
- Manage supplier payments and optimise working capital
Payroll & Compliance
- Oversee end-to-end payroll processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance
- Ensure compliance with PAYE, VAT, and other statutory obligations
- Manage pension contributions and employee benefits administration
Operational & Strategic Support
- Partner with senior leadership to support business growth and expansion
- Provide financial insight into:
- Product performance
- International sales channels
- E-commerce and wholesale operations
- Identify cost-saving opportunities and improve operational efficiency
- Support system improvements (e.g. accounting software, reporting tools)
Key Skills & Experience
Essential
- AAT qualified (or equivalent)
- Proven experience in a similar Accounts Manager or Finance Director role
- Strong background in:
- Management accounts
- Cash flow forecasting
- Payroll oversight
- Credit control processes
- Experience managing or supervising finance staff
- Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with accounting systems ideally Sage.
Desirable
- Experience in retail, fashion, jewellery, or e-commerce sectors
- Understanding of multi-currency and international trading
- Experience working in a growing or fast-paced SME environment
Personal Attributes
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Commercially minded with the ability to influence decision-making
- Proactive, hands-on, and solution-focused
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-moving, creative business environment
Package
- Competitive salary: £45k to £50k
- Bonus / performance incentives
- Staff discounts on products
- Opportunity to grow with an international brand
- Free Parking
Pay: £45,000.00-£55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
