Accounts Manager / Finance Director (AAT Qualified) job at Taunton Full Time

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and commercially astute Accounts Manager / Finance Director (AAT Qualified) to lead the finance function of a dynamic, fast-growing global fashion jewellery brand.

This role requires full responsibility for financial operations, ensuring robust financial controls, accurate reporting, and strong cash flow management, while managing a small finance team including bookkeeping, credit control, and payroll functions.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

• Prepare and deliver monthly management accounts with analysis, commentary, and actionable insights
• Oversee year-end accounts and liaise with external accountants/auditors
• Produce budgets, forecasts, and financial projections aligned with business goals
• Monitor profitability, margins, and cost control, particularly across product lines and markets
• Ensure compliance with UK accounting standards and HMRC requirements

Team Leadership & Oversight

• Manage and supervise:
• Bookkeeper (transactional processing, reconciliations)/ Credit Controller (accounts receivable, collections)
• Payroll (staff payroll, compliance)
• Provide guidance, training, and performance management to the team.
• Implement efficient workflows and financial processes

Cash Flow & Credit Control

• Maintain strong cash flow management and forecasting
• Oversee credit control strategy, ensuring timely collections and minimising bad debt
• Monitor debtor days and implement improvements where needed
• Manage supplier payments and optimise working capital

Payroll & Compliance

• Oversee end-to-end payroll processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Ensure compliance with PAYE, VAT, and other statutory obligations
• Manage pension contributions and employee benefits administration

Operational & Strategic Support

• Partner with senior leadership to support business growth and expansion
• Provide financial insight into:
• Product performance
• International sales channels
• E-commerce and wholesale operations
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and improve operational efficiency
• Support system improvements (e.g. accounting software, reporting tools)

Key Skills & Experience

Essential

• AAT qualified (or equivalent)
• Proven experience in a similar Accounts Manager or Finance Director role
• Strong background in:
• Management accounts
• Cash flow forecasting
• Payroll oversight
• Credit control processes
• Experience managing or supervising finance staff
• Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with accounting systems ideally Sage.

Desirable

• Experience in retail, fashion, jewellery, or e-commerce sectors
• Understanding of multi-currency and international trading
• Experience working in a growing or fast-paced SME environment

Personal Attributes

• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Commercially minded with the ability to influence decision-making
• Proactive, hands-on, and solution-focused
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-moving, creative business environment

Package

• Competitive salary: £45k to £50k
• Bonus / performance incentives
• Staff discounts on products
• Opportunity to grow with an international brand
• Free Parking

Pay: £45,000.00-£55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Free parking
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person