Finance Manager

Job: Finance Manager

Location: Newcastle (hybrid)

Fixed Term Contract until July 2027 with potential to go permanent

Reed Accountancy & Finance are recruiting for a Finance Manager on behalf of a large and well-established public sector organisation. This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified finance professional to take ownership of a critical finance function, leading financial services operations and ensuring the delivery of high-quality financial reporting, governance, and control.

The successful candidate will play a key role in managing financial activities, providing technical accounting expertise, supporting statutory reporting requirements, and leading a high-performing team. This position offers the opportunity to influence financial strategy, drive continuous improvement, and support the organisation's long-term financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operation of the Finance function, ensuring the timely and accurate processing of all receipts and payments within available cash resources.
• Oversee cash flow management, treasury activities, balance sheet control, VAT returns, and taxation matters.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, governance frameworks, and statutory reporting requirements.
• Provide a full range of technical accounting services to support accurate internal and external financial reporting.
• Lead the preparation of annual statutory accounts, subsidiary accounts, charitable fund accounts, and supporting working papers.
• Act as the key contact for internal and external auditors, coordinating audit requirements and ensuring recommendations are implemented where appropriate.
• Provide expert financial and taxation advice to managers and budget holders on complex financial matters.
• Develop and maintain effective financial controls, systems, and processes to support efficient service delivery.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and drive initiatives to enhance financial performance and operational effectiveness.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a finance team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous professional development.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Qualified accountant.
• At least five years' experience in a senior finance position.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including statutory reporting and financial governance.
• Proven experience preparing annual accounts and supporting external audits.
• Extensive knowledge of VAT, taxation, treasury management, and balance sheet management.
• Demonstrable leadership experience with the ability to manage and develop teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organisational skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Desirable:

• Previous experience within a public sector or large complex organisation.
• Experience managing financial services, treasury, or technical accounting functions.

What's on Offer

• A varied and influential leadership role within a respected public sector organisation.
• Opportunity to lead key financial services activities and contribute to strategic decision-making.
• Supportive working environment with excellent professional development opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.