Finance Controller / FD Designate

Senior Finance Manager / Finance Director (Designate) Growing SME A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced finance professional to join a rapidly growing and highly successful SME in West Norfolk. As a key member of the Senior Management Team and reporting directly to the CEO, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial strategy, strengthening business processes, and supporting the next phase of organisational growth. This role is ideal for a commercially minded Senior Finance Manager ready to step into a broader leadership position or an emerging Finance Director seeking a hands‑on, influential role within a dynamic business. What You’ll Lead & Deliver As our senior finance lead, you’ll be at the heart of the business, driving insight‑led decision‑making and helping shape future plans for growth. You will: * Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and Directors bringing financial clarity, challenge, and commercial insight * Lead and develop a small, capable finance team, embedding strong processes and a continuous‑improvement mindset * Own budgeting, forecasting, and reporting — ensuring the business has the data and analysis it needs to move forward * Attend monthly director meetings, influencing decisions and championing best practice * Stay ahead of regulatory changes, ensuring compliance and efficient reporting * Oversee weekly and monthly payroll for up to 100 employees * Provide cost analysis, scenario modelling, and financial planning to support medium‑ and long‑term strategy * Review and upgrade finance systems and processes to support scale-up * Identify risks and implement internal controls that protect the business as it grows Skills & Experience required for this Finance Manager role: * We are looking for a confident, proactive finance leader who can balance strategic thinking with hands‑on delivery * Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence at senior level * High attention to detail and an analytical, problem‑solving mindset * A collaborative team player who builds strong relationships across the business * Experience with Sage accounting and strong Excel capability * A desire to develop and progress within a growing organisation * Hold a recognised professional qualification (ACMA / ACCA / ACA or equivalent) Rewards & Benefits being offered: * Competitive salary aligned with experience * Bonuses related to business performance * Contributory pension scheme * Death in service payment * Healthcare payment scheme * A vibrant, friendly and supportive working environment * Excellent staff facilities and on-site parking * Opportunity to work for a company that genuinely promotes a healthy work–life balance Whether you’re stepping up from a Finance Manager role, moving from practice into industry, or already operating at senior level in an SME, we’d love to hear from you