About this role
Harper May is working with a multi-channel retail group operating stores and e-commerce across the UK. The business is privately held, has grown consistently over the past three years, and processes in excess of £50m in annual revenue. The finance function currently sits within a lean operations team, and the business is now looking to strengthen its finance capability with a dedicated manager to drive cleaner reporting, tighter controls, and sharper commercial analysis.
The Role
Reporting to the Finance Director, you will manage the core finance operations covering ledger management, monthly close, and commercial reporting. You will work alongside store management and the central commercial team to surface performance drivers and support operational decision-making in a busy trading environment.
Key Responsibilities
Execute reliable month-end and year-end close cycles, producing timely management accounts and statutory packsBuild and own annual budgets, rolling forecasts, and weekly cash flow projectionsAnalyse store and channel profitability, gross margin, and operational spend varianceEstablish and maintain robust bank reconciliations, fixed asset registers, and balance sheet controlsWork with the commercial team to model promotional and pricing decisions and track their financial impactSupport audit engagement and tax compliance workstreamsDocument and improve finance processes to reduce manual work and strengthen internal controls What we are looking for
AAT Part 3 qualified minimum; ACA, ACCA, or CIMA preferredThree to five years' hands-on finance management experience, ideally in retail, hospitality, or another trading businessGenuine competence in management accounting, variance analysis, and forecastingProficiency in Excel and experience with standard accounting softwareAbility to communicate finance insights clearly to operational and commercial leadersProactive, organised mindset; comfortable with ambiguity and moving quickly