Finance Director – Strategic Partner for Manufacturing Business

About the role

AFR Consulting is seeking an experienced Finance Director to join a profitable, internationally‑trading manufacturing business in Blackburn. Reporting directly to the Managing Director and sitting on the site Board, you will act as a strategic partner, driving performance, growth and risk management.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance team and the HR department.
• Partner with the MD and senior leadership to improve profitability.
• Own all financial reporting, budgeting and forecasting activities.
• Manage liquidity, cash‑flow and multi‑currency transactions.
• Ensure compliance with UK GAAP and Group corporate directives.
• Prepare and present financial data for board and stakeholder meetings.
• Oversee company secretarial duties and liaise with legal advisers.
• Develop long‑term financial plans and support business strategy execution.
• Evaluate CAPEX proposals, monitor investments and manage financial risk.
• Coordinate with external auditors for statutory year‑end audit.
• Set HR strategy, policies and promote employee engagement.

Required profile

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
• Proven experience as a Finance Director or senior finance leader in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong commercial acumen with a track record of influencing senior management.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work with international stakeholders.

Required skills

• UK GAAP compliance
• Financial reporting
• Budgeting and forecasting
• Cash‑flow management
• CAPEX appraisal
• Risk management
• Audit liaison