Finance Director / CFO - Freight Forwarding - Manchester - #2083186

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Finance Director to join our senior management team at our Manchester office. This is a hands-on CFO role responsible for managing the full finance function of a freight forwarding business.

The role combines strategic oversight with day-to-day financial operations, ensuring tight control of cash flow, profitability per shipment, and strong financial discipline across the business. You will work closely with operational and commercial teams, providing clear financial insight while remaining closely involved in the detail.

This position is well suited to a commercially minded finance leader who thrives in a fast-paced, operational environment and enjoys balancing strategic influence with hands-on delivery.

Note: This role is based in our Manchester office and is an onsite, with limited travel across UK and Ireland

How you will contribute:

• Lead the full finance function, delivering monthly management accounts, year-end reporting, and robust balance sheet control.
• Oversee day-to-day finance operations including AP/AR, bank reconciliations, payroll, and monthly close/cut-offs.
• Ensure full compliance with IFRS, VAT, PAYE, corporation tax, and statutory reporting requirements.
• Actively manage cash flow and working capital, including credit control, DSO reduction, and supplier payments.
• Maintain sufficient liquidity to support freight prepayments and operational needs.
• Monitor and analyse profitability by shipment, customer, and department, providing clear commercial insights.
• Partner closely with Operations and Sales to ensure full cost recovery and margin protection.
• Drive cost control and efficiency improvements across overheads and operations, in line with head office controls.
• Lead budgeting and forecasting (REF), including system uploads and presentations to senior management.
• Own and improve finance systems (Sage/ERP), manage external auditors, and lead the finance team or function.

What you will bring

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA)
• Senior finance experience in both an SME (hands-on role) and corporate environment would be beneficial
• Background in freight forwarding, logistics, or similar service-based industry
• Strong cash flow and working capital management experience
• Strong data modelling and analysis
• Ability to operate both strategically and operationally