Finance Manager - Strategic & Hands-On Role (standalone role)Colchester, Essex - Full-Time - Salary negotiable (scale disclosed on application)

WE Talent is pleased to be supporting our client, a respected and growing small business based in Essex, in their search for a capable and dependable Finance Manager.

This role is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional who enjoys balancing high-level oversight with hands-on involvement. It’s well suited to someone who values fast pace of work with attention to detail, and taking a methodical, consistent approach to maintaining robust financial systems.

Working as part of a small, committed office team, you will lead all aspects of the finance function - from payroll and invoicing to forecasting, reporting, and advising on strategic decisions. A clear focus on cashflow and credit control will be essential in supporting the ongoing stability and success of the business.

About the Role

As Finance Manager, you'll be the key financial contact across the business. Your role will involve regular interaction with both operational and leadership teams to ensure financial performance stays on track and decisions are supported by accurate, timely data.

This is a role that requires initiative, precision, and excellent organisational skills. You will be responsible for ensuring the finance function operates efficiently day-to-day, while also contributing to longer-term planning and improvements.

Key Focus Areas:

Cashflow monitoring and forecasting
Credit control and debtor management
Monthly financial reporting and oversight
Payroll and employee-related financials
Accurate record keeping and regulatory compliance
Maintaining and improving systems in Xero

This is a broad and involved role that requires someone comfortable overseeing day-to-day finance operations while contributing to wider business planning. Your responsibilities will include:

Overseeing purchase and sales processes, ensuring accuracy and timely invoicing
Managing supplier payments and maintaining oversight of financial transactions
Working closely with project and operational teams to ensure billing reflects current workstreams

Taking ownership of cashflow planning and monitoring
Managing customer accounts and proactively supporting credit control activity
Maintaining visibility of outstanding payments and working with stakeholders to ensure timely resolution

Managing the payroll process from preparation to approval
Ensuring employee-related financial records are accurate and up to date
Overseeing compliance with pension and HMRC requirements

Preparing monthly reporting packs to support informed decision-making
Supporting VAT returns, year-end accounts, and other compliance needs
Maintaining clear and accurate records across all financial systems

Working with the leadership team to support planning and investment decisions
Advising on cost control, budgeting, and financial risk
Representing finance in internal meetings and with external contacts such as accountants, brokers or insurers

What We’re Looking For:

Experience in a finance leadership role within a small business environment
Strong understanding of cashflow management and credit control
Proficiency with Xero and general financial reporting
Confident in both strategic discussions and hands-on accounting work
Reliable, methodical, and detail-oriented with strong communication skills
Comfortable working independently and with others across the business

To apply, please submit your CV or contact WE Talent for a confidential conversation.

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