Location: Greater Manchester

Salary: c.£100,000 + equity potential

We are partnering with a private equity-backed manufacturing SME in Greater Manchester to appoint a commercially driven Finance Director. This is a pivotal role within a high-growth business, offering the opportunity to work closely with an experienced leadership team and investors to drive scale, performance, and long-term value creation.

This role is ideally suited to an ambitious, hands-on finance leader looking to step into (or build on) their first Finance Director position within a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

Reporting directly to the CEO and working closely with private equity stakeholders, you will take full ownership of the finance function while playing a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the business.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead and develop the finance function, ensuring robust financial controls and reporting
• Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and Board, supporting decision-making and growth plans
• Drive budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes
• Improve financial visibility, KPIs, and operational performance
• Support and lead on potential M&A activity, integrations, and future exit planning
• Enhance systems, processes, and reporting to support scalability
• Work closely with operations, supply chain, and production teams to improve margin and efficiency
• Manage banking relationships, cash flow, and funding requirements

We are looking for a high-potential, commercially minded finance professional with a strong track record in manufacturing or industrial environments.

Key requirements:

• Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
• Experience within manufacturing, engineering, or a related sector
• Background in a PE-backed, high-growth, or SME environment preferred
• Ambitious, entrepreneurial mindset with the drive to progress and make an impact
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to influence at Board level
• Hands-on approach – comfortable operating both strategically and operationally
• Experience improving systems, processes, and financial controls
• Exposure to M&A or investor environments would be advantageous

• Opportunity to play a key role in a PE-backed growth journey
• Direct exposure to investors and strategic decision-making
• Real scope to shape the finance function and wider business
• Fast-paced, entrepreneurial culture with significant progression potential
• Equity participation aligned with value creation

• Salary: c.£100,000
• Performance-related bonus
• Equity / incentive scheme
• Additional benefits

Please apply with your most recent CV