Head of Finance - Bedfordshire - Up to £60,000 DOEFamily run business is looking for a proactive and experienced Finance leader to support the team in this newly created position. In this brand new role, you'll be instrumental in steering the financial direction of this thriving organisation.Please note due to location this role will require someone with their own transport. KEY RESPONSIBILITIESOverall responsibility of the Accounts Team Oversee the financial operations of the company, ensuring accuracy and compliance Manage elements of the budgeting process, including monitoring, and reporting on financial performanceOversee and provide cover where necessary for the Accounts ManagerManaging VAT returns and Intrastat declarations for our Dutch companyProduct Pricing analysis and decision makingProvide financial analysis and insights to support decision-making at both strategic and operational levels Monitor and drive continuous improvements in the businessPerform basic ad-hoc analysis as requiredProduce monthly management accounts and margin analysisManaging Sage 50 templates and report building and housekeepingProducing weekly KPIs to help ensure the business meet their long term strategic goalsCompile all information annually for all UK and The Netherlands company insuranceLine management of Accounts ManagerWork collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including the sales and operations teams, to ensure accurate financial reporting and forecastingContinuously improve and streamline accounting processes and proceduresLiaise with external stakeholders such as financial institutions including banks, insurance companies, brokerage firms and foreign exchange dealersStay updated on industry trends, best practices, and regulatory changes related to financeWhat you will need:Fully qualified Accountant (ACCA/ACA) or equivalent in experienceProven experience in a leadership role within a finance departmentStrong analytical, decision-making, and management skillsExcellent knowledge of data analysis and forecasting methodsExperience of accounting software and financial management systemsMS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)Excellent communication skills (both written and oral)A desire to work with a small, yet fast paced organisation, who are focussed on continuous improvement Understanding of international trade, multi-currency accounting and VAT