Financial Accountant

Our client, a leading manufacturing company based in Co. Meath, is seeking a commercially focused Financial Accountant with manufacturing experience. The successful candidate will combine strong financial control, operational insight, and strategic business partnering to drive performance, support informed decision-making, and contribute to the company's continued growth and long-term success.

The Financial Accountant is responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting activities of the company, ensuring robust financial controls, accurate reporting, compliance with Irish statutory requirements, and providing strategic financial support to the management team. The role is particularly focused on supporting operational efficiency, cost control, inventory management, and profitability within a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

·       Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual management accounts in a timely manner.

·       Produce financial reports, budgets, forecasts, and cash flow projections.

·       Analyse financial performance and provide recommendations to improve profitability and operational efficiency.

·       Present financial results and key performance indicators (KPIs) to senior management.

·       Ensure accurate maintenance of the general ledger and all accounting records.

·       Oversee pricing strategies, margin analysis & product profitability reviews.

Budgeting & Forecasting

·       Lead the annual budgeting process.

·       Monitor performance against budget and investigate variances.

·       Support strategic planning and business growth initiatives.

Cash Flow & Working Capital Management

·       Manage cash flow forecasting and liquidity requirements.

·       Monitor debtor and creditor balances.

·       Optimise working capital performance.

·       Liaise with banks, lenders, and external advisors as required.

Financial Controls & Compliance

·       Maintain strong internal financial controls and procedures.

·       Ensure compliance with Irish accounting standards, taxation requirements, and company policies.

·       Manage VAT, Corporation Tax, PAYE/PRSI, and Revenue reporting obligations.

·       Coordinate annual audits and act as primary contact for external auditors.

·       Ensure compliance with relevant company law and regulatory requirements.

Team Leadership

·       Lead and develop the finance team.

·       Allocate workloads and monitor performance.

·       Identify training and development opportunities.

·       Promote a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Business Partnering

·       Collaborate with operations, procurement, sales, and senior management teams.

·       Provide financial insights to support decision-making.

·       Evaluate capital expenditure proposals and investment opportunities.

·       Participate in strategic projects and business improvement initiatives.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

·       Timely completion of monthly management accounts.

·       Accuracy of financial reporting.

·       Budget and forecast accuracy.

·       Inventory accuracy and stock valuation integrity.

·       Working capital performance.

·       Cash flow management.

·       Audit outcomes and compliance standards.

·       Gross margin and cost reduction initiatives.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

·       Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA).

·       5+ years' post-qualification experience.

·       Previous experience in a manufacturing environment.

·       Strong knowledge of management accounting, budgeting, and financial controls.

·       Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing reporting.

·       Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Desirable

·       Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.

·       Experience implementing financial systems or process improvements.

Skills & Competencies

·       Strong commercial and business acumen.

·       Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

·       Strong leadership and people management capabilities.

·       Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.

·       High attention to detail and accuracy.

·       Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

·       Strategic thinking combined with a hands-on approach. 

Note this is a hybrid role, with 4 days per week based in the office and 1 day working from home.