Management Accountant

Antony James Recruitment Ltd are delighted to have partnered with a growing commercial client located near the Leeds City Centre in recruiting a Management Accountant. Reporting into the Finance Manager you will play a key role in providing accurate financial insights, supporting decision-making, and improving financial performance within the manufacturing environment. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to operational efficiency, cost management, and profitability in a fast-paced industry.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Cost Analysis & Control:
   • Prepare and analyse standard costings for products, ensuring accurate valuation of inventory.
   • Identify cost-saving opportunities and provide recommendations to improve operational efficiency.
   • Perform variance analysis to compare actual costs with budgeted or standard costs and report on significant deviations.
2. Financial Reporting & Forecasting:
   • Prepare monthly management accounts, including income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.
   • Develop and maintain accurate financial forecasts, including profit and loss, balance sheets, and cash flow projections.
   • Present monthly financial performance to senior management with clear explanations of variances and insights for corrective actions.
3. Budgeting & Planning:
   • Assist in the preparation of annual budgets, including departmental budgets for manufacturing and production operations.
   • Track and monitor budget performance and provide management with regular updates on financial progress against budget.
4. Inventory Management:
   • Oversee inventory valuations and perform regular inventory audits.
   • Work closely with the production team to ensure optimal inventory levels, reducing both excess inventory and stockouts.
5. Productivity & Efficiency Analysis:
   • Analyse production costs, monitor productivity, and identify opportunities for process improvements.
   • Support the manufacturing team with financial data to assist in efficiency improvements and decision-making.
6. Internal Controls & Compliance:
   • Ensure compliance with financial policies, internal controls, and accounting standards.
   • Assist in audits, both internal and external, and provide necessary financial data and documentation.
7. ERP System Maintenance & Reporting:
   • Maintain and improve financial reporting systems and processes, ensuring accurate and timely data capture.
   • Support the finance team in the implementation and optimisation of ERP software specific to manufacturing.
8. Ad-hoc Analysis & Projects:
   • Participate in special projects such as capital investment appraisals, cost-benefit analyses, and cost modelling.
   • Provide financial support to manufacturing and operations teams for decision-making and strategic planning.

Qualifications:

• Education: A degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field is required. Professional qualification (CIMA, ACCA, ACA) or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in a management accounting role, preferably within a manufacturing or production environment.
• Skills:
  • Strong understanding of cost accounting principles and manufacturing processes.
  • Proficient in financial modelling, budgeting, and forecasting.
  • Advanced Excel skills and experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.).
  • Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret and communicate financial data to non-financial managers.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy, with the ability to meet tight deadlines.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
• A team player with a positive, can-do attitude.