Finance Manager

Location: Colchester

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 17:00

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

Hybrid Working: 2 days per week remote

Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum

Ashley Kate is delighted to be partnering with a leading FMCG business in the search for a proactive and commercially minded Finance Manager. This is a unique opportunity to take full ownership of the financial performance of AFF, with a strong focus on production P&L and strategic business partnering. Reporting directly to the Head of Business Finance, this role offers broad responsibilities without direct line management.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the production and ownership of the full P&L, annual budgeting, and three-year strategic business planning.
• Deliver insightful performance analysis and regular reporting to senior stakeholders.
• Act as a trusted business partner to senior leadership, including the Procurement and Supply Chain Director and Head Office teams.
• Drive enhanced variance analysis and implement robust controls across yield, wastage, labour, and operational costs.
• Support internal financial controls including database management, timesheet accuracy, and forecasting processes.
• Contribute to cross-site projects focused on process optimisation, cost efficiency, and continuous improvement.
• Manage capital expenditure processes and ensure effective ROI tracking and reporting.

Skills & Experience

• Part or fully qualified ACCA/CIMA preferred; candidates qualified by experience will also be considered.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel is essential; experience with Power BI is highly desirable.
• Prior experience in WIP accounting or within an FMCG environment is strongly advantageous.
• Self-motivated and confident working independently as the on-site finance expert.
• Proven ability to solve complex problems and make sound financial decisions in a fast-paced, variable environment.
• Comfortable working in a small office setting within a dynamic industry.

What’s in It for You

• Competitive salary up to £50,000 per annum.
• Annual bonus scheme.
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Life Assurance: 3x basic salary.
  • Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support including remote GP access.
  • Annual Leave: 33 days including bank holidays, with service-based increases and holiday purchase options.
  • Training & Development: Tailored induction and ongoing learning opportunities.
  • Employee Discounts: Access to retail savings, salary finance schemes, and wellness benefits.
  • Additional Perks: Recognition awards, engagement events, volunteering days, and attendance incentives.

Interested? Please get in touch with  or please call 0203 800 1500 for more information.