Financial Controller – Burnley

About the role

I’m working exclusively on a newly created Financial Controller opportunity with a highly successful, growing business in the Burnley area. Following significant investment and ambitious plans for further organic and acquisitive growth, the business is going through an exciting period of transformation. As part of this, they are looking for a hands‑on Financial Controller who can take ownership of the finance function and help build the infrastructure, controls and reporting needed to support the next stage of growth.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance function across management accounts, credit, purchase ledger and payroll.
• Take ownership of the month‑end close and produce accurate management accounts.
• Improve the month‑end timetable, controls and reporting processes.
• Develop the use of Sage 50 to provide greater visibility and accuracy across the business.
• Strengthen reporting around cost of sales, margins and overall business performance.
• Enhance balance‑sheet controls, reconciliations and financial governance.
• Support budgeting, forecasting and scenario planning.
• Lead cash‑flow and working‑capital reporting.
• Oversee VAT, PAYE, CIS, pensions and other statutory requirements.
• Coordinate year‑end accounts and audit with external advisers.
• Drive finance process, systems and reporting improvements.
• Develop stronger business partnering between Finance and operational teams.
• Provide financial insight and constructive challenge to senior stakeholders.

Required profile

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with strong technical accounting and management reporting experience, preferably in an SME environment.
• Proven ability to roll up sleeves and improve finance processes.
• Strong Excel and accounting systems experience.
• Ability to work closely with both financial and non‑financial stakeholders.
• Manufacturing experience (inventory, costing, margins) is beneficial but not essential.
• Experience in PE‑backed or high‑growth environments is advantageous.

Required skills

• Sage 50
• Microsoft Excel