Finance Manager

Overview 

Started in 2006, today Flint imports the wines from over 150 producers, predominantly from Burgundy, the US and Italy, which it sells to the on-trade, off-trade and to private clients. With a people-first culture and an emphasis on teamwork, Flint is one of the UK’s most dynamic fine wine merchants, and one of the most ambitious.

Context 

In the past two years, Flint has undergone a period of significant investment. This includes filling some key senior positions, undertaking a rebrand, putting in place a formal annual planning and budgeting process, renovating the office, upgrading the ERP system to Bevica, and initiating a web development project – which will provide the foundation to further grow the business. The team is now 40 people.

Description 

Flint is seeking to recruit a Finance Manager to support the Finance Director and wider finance function, working closely with the Customer Services, Logistics, Buying and Sales teams as the business continues to grow. The role will support the delivery of accurate financial reporting, strong financial controls and effective financial planning across the business. The company operates a hybrid working policy. The office is based in Kennington.

Responsibilities

Budgeting & Forecasting

·      Work with the Finance Director on preparing the Company’s annual budget

·      Work with sales, operations, and buying teams to ensure budgets reflect sales volumes, margins, stock levels, and operational costs

·      Monitor performance against budget and provide variance analysis with actionable insights throughout the year

Management Accounts

·      Prepare and deliver accurate quarterly management accounts (and monthly sales reports) within agreed timelines

·      Produce analysis of revenue, gross margins, inventory movements, operating costs, and profitability by channel and discuss findings with the Finance Director

Foreign Exchange (FX) Management

·      Support the Finance Director in monitoring and implementing the Company’s FX strategy

·      Monitor and manage foreign currency exposure

·      Record FX transactions and revaluations accurately in the accounting system

·      Liaise with banking partners on FX payments and hedging where applicable

Accounts Payable & Receivable Support

·      Provide support and assistance on the accounts payable and receivable processes to ensure timely processing of supplier invoices and customer receipts.

·      Support the team with query resolution, reconciliations, and process improvements.

·      Monitor aged payables and receivables to maintain strong cash flow and supplier relationships.

Corporation Tax

·      Liaise with external advisers and ensure timely submission of tax filings

·      Ensure appropriate tax provisions are reflected in the financial statements

·      Ensure corporation tax payments are accurate and on time

Payroll & PAYE

·      Work with the Company’s external payroll provider to manage the monthly payroll process, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time.

·      Ensure compliance with PAYE, National Insurance, pensions, and related statutory requirements

·      Reconcile payroll postings to the general ledger

VAT & Duty Compliance

·      Prepare and submit VAT returns in line with HMRC requirements

·      Ensure correct VAT treatment of sales, imports, and purchases

·      Understand the complexity of importing with from a VAT and duty perspective and ensure correct treatment in the General Ledger

·      Maintain supporting documentation and respond to any VAT queries

P11D & Benefits Compliance

·      Ensure accurate reporting of employee benefits and expenses through P11D submissions

·      Maintain appropriate records and ensure compliance with HMRC regulations

Banking & Cash Management

·      Manage relationships with banking partners and oversee company bank accounts

·      Monitor daily cash flow and prepare cash flow forecasts as needed

·      Approve and process out of cycle payments where required and ensure bank reconciliations are completed regularly

Month-End Accounting

·      Calculate and post accruals, prepayments, and retros as part of the month-end close process

·      Ensure the accuracy and completeness of the general ledger, including the GRNI balance

Audit Support

·      Assist with the year-end audit, preparing schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation

·      Liaise with external auditors and ensure audit queries are addressed promptly

Controls & Process Improvement

·      Maintain strong financial controls and ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.

·      Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, reporting efficiency, and data accuracy.

Skills/behaviour/experience required 

·      Qualified Accountant (including qualified by experience)

·      Highly organised, able to follow a process and takes pride in efficiency and conscientiousness

·      Able to work well as part of a team and as an individual

·      Ability to prioritise, able to work under pressure and timescales

·      Detail-oriented and precise, with exceptional IT skills (Excel and MS office 365 skills essential)

·      Excellent communication skills

·      Experience with Microsoft Dynamics / Business Central is desirable but not required

·      Experience in retail or distribution is desirable but not required

Pay and benefits

Competitive salary plus an annual bonus scheme, pension contributions, private healthcare, a wine allowance, the opportunity to participate in tastings and events, and discount on company products. The Company may also be able to provide study support.