Hirexo are working with a well-established, multi-site retail and consumer goods business that is embarking on a critical phase of operational transformation and financial optimisation. As part of this journey, we are recruiting a commercially minded and technically proficient Finance Director to provide strategic financial leadership, drive performance, and strengthen investor confidence in partnership with private equity and venture capital stakeholders. About Our Client: Our client is a national retail and distribution business with a diversified product portfolio and a strong presence across several high-volume sites in the UK. Operating within a competitive consumer market, the company has undergone recent restructuring to streamline operations and is now focused on delivering profitable growth and operational efficiency. With a head office based in Manchester, they are entering a pivotal period that requires robust financial control, detailed performance analysis, and strategic planning. The Opportunity for the Finance Director: This role is central to the business s transformation strategy and reports directly to the Managing Director, with regular reporting and interaction with key PE/VC stakeholders. The Finance Director will be expected to take full ownership of the financial function, playing a vital role in stabilising cash flow, improving financial rigour, and supporting long-term profitability. This is not a back-office role the successful candidate will be expected to shape commercial decisions and operational strategy with data-driven insight and disciplined financial leadership. This is a full-time, permanent position based onsite in Manchester, partnering closely with the senior leadership team and external financial sponsors. Key Responsibilities for the Finance Director:

• Lead the finance function across FP&A, management reporting, statutory compliance, and transactional finance, ensuring high-quality outputs across all areas.
• Develop and implement strategic financial plans, budgets, and rolling forecasts, aligned with business objectives and investor expectations.
• Oversee working capital management, treasury operations, and liquidity forecasting with a focus on optimising cash flow and supporting growth.
• Manage the production and presentation of monthly board packs and investor reports, delivering insightful variance analysis, EBITDA bridge commentary, and ROI tracking.
• Embed robust internal controls and financial governance frameworks, ensuring compliance with accounting standards (IFRS/UK GAAP) and external audit requirements.
• Partner with commercial and operational teams to drive margin improvement, cost optimisation, and capital allocation strategies.
• Support M&A activity, business case development, and due diligence in coordination with investment partners.
• Lead and develop a small but high-performing finance team, promoting a culture of ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Act as a key advisor to the MD on financial strategy, business performance, and investment priorities.

What You ll Need to Succeed as the Finance Director:

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) with significant PQE in senior finance roles.
• Experience in a fast-paced, multi-site environment within retail, distribution, or consumer products sectors.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge with the ability to navigate complex financial reporting requirements.
• Proven experience working with private equity and/or venture capital-backed businesses.
• Turnaround experience highly desirable ability to implement cash conservation strategies, re-forecast business plans, and guide recovery to profitability.
• Commercially astute with advanced modelling skills and a strong understanding of business drivers and KPIs.
• Confident communicator with strong stakeholder management skills able to influence board members, investors, and operational teams alike.
• Track record of improving finance functions, delivering system/process upgrades, and fostering performance-driven teams.

The Package for the Finance Director:

• Salary: £75,000 to £85,000
• Employment Type: Permanent
• Working Arrangement: Fully onsite in Manchester
• Impact: Opportunity to lead financial transformation and influence business strategy
• Location: Manchester

About Hirexo Talent Partners: Hirexo Talent Partners are a specialist finance recruitment consultancy, partnering with businesses across the UK to strengthen their financial teams. From finance assistants to CFOs, we help companies secure the best talent to drive success. If you're an experienced Finance Director looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you.