Russam is supporting a long-established, family-owned manufacturer of bespoke timber products in the appointment of a Senior Financial Controller. With more than a century of trading history, around 130 employees across two sites and a strong reputation for craftsmanship, the business serves trade, commercial and private clients across engineered timber, timber frame housing and premium garden and equestrian buildings.
After a challenging period for the construction and building products market, the business is entering a phase of modernisation and margin recovery. This is a pivotal, hands‑on role at the heart of the senior leadership team, acting as a trusted right hand to the Managing Director on financial, commercial and strategic decisions, including shaping the long‑term options for the business. For the right person, there is a clear path to Finance Director.
- Finance leadership: Lead, mentor and develop an accounts team of three, building capability and confidence as the function modernises.
- Reporting: Own month-end, management accounts, year-end and the audit relationship, delivering clear monthly reporting to the MD and board.
- Controls: Strengthen financial controls across both sites, including stock control, reconciliations and job costing.
- Profitability: Report margin by division and by job, so the business knows exactly where it makes and loses money.
- Cash & forecasting: Manage cash flow and working capital through a rolling cash forecast, and lead budgeting and reforecasting.
- Commercial partnering: Act as a sounding board to the MD on pricing, investment and cost reduction, driving the profit improvement plan.
- Strategy & corporate finance: Contribute to long‑term financial planning and strategic options, including potential M&A activity.
- Governance: Attend board meetings, report to the family shareholders and manage relationships with banks, auditors and advisers.
- Wider business: Oversee IT infrastructure and suppliers, and support HR and recruitment alongside colleagues.
The Desired Candidate
You will be a qualified, commercially sharp finance leader, most likely an ambitious Financial Controller ready for the step up to FD, or an FD who relishes a hands‑on brief. You will combine strong technical controls with the confidence and presence to advise on strategy.
You will bring:
- ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification.
- Proven experience as a Financial Controller or senior finance leader in an SME.
- Strong management accounting, including job or contract costing.
- Exposure to M&A, acquisitions, disposals or a business sale process.
- Experience of supporting a business through turnaround, profit improvement or tough trading conditions.
- A background in manufacturing, construction or building products (desirable rather than essential).
- A resilient, consultative style, with the gravitas to challenge constructively and earn the trust of a family board.
- A long‑term commitment to the business, living within comfortable commuting distance of Thrapston.
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