Company details and job overview:This established groundworks and construction business, with a turnover of approximately £20 million, operates across multiple trading entities. The company is in the process of building a new head office, with completion expected by early next year, marking an exciting phase of investment and growth.The Finance Manager will report directly to the owner and will be the sole finance professional within the business, overseeing all aspects of financial operations, compliance, and reporting.Role OverviewThe Finance Manager will take full responsibility for the day-to-day finance function across two to three businesses within the group. The role is well-suited to an experienced and hands-on individual with a background in construction, civil engineering, or related sectors. This person will be pivotal in ensuring financial accuracy, improving processes, and supporting strategic decision-making.Key Responsibilities
• Oversee end-to-end finance operations across multiple entities
• Manage VAT returns and ensure full CIS compliance and submissions
• Conduct bank reconciliations and manage sales and purchase ledgers
• Prepare monthly management accounts and cash flow forecasts
• Coordinate payroll processing
• Support budgeting and planning for the company’s new office project
• Liaise with external accountants and assist in reducing reliance over time
• Provide financial oversight for associated property or investment businesses
• Implement process improvements and ensure efficient use of Xero softwareCandidate Requirements
• Proven experience in a similar finance role within a construction, groundworks, or civil engineering business
• Strong working knowledge of VAT and CIS
• Comfortable managing the finances of multiple business entities
• Proficient in Xero and Excel
• Capable of preparing draft management accounts and delivering meaningful MI
• Either part-qualified (AAT/ACCA/CIMA) or qualified by experience
• Self-sufficient and detail-oriented, with the confidence to work independentlyBenefits
• Competitive salary of £40,000 - £50,000 (depending on experience)
• 28 days holiday including bank holidays
• Key involvement in business growth and development
• Opportunity to lead and shape the finance function
• Long-term role with stability and autonomyThis vacancy is being handled by Thomas Hoather - Kenton Black Finance. Kenton Black Finance operate across the UK as a market leading recruitment partner, specialising in the attraction of finance talent across both permanent and interim requirements. With a team of dedicated experts, each with longevity operating in the finance arena, we maintain a proven track record and have established partnerships with businesses both large, small and those in their infancy. Market leaders, we provide recruitment solutions from entry level finance to directorship professionals. Operating from local offices in Preston, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Birmingham and Glasgow, Kenton Black Finance remain a dynamic and effective recruitment partner who represent and attract only the finest finance talent in the local area and across the UK.