Financial Controller or Financial Director

Deakin & Francis Ltd – Birmingham
Full-Time | Office Based | 9am–5pm

About Us

Founded in 1786, Deakin & Francis is England’s oldest manufacturing jeweller, with a heritage spanning more than two centuries. Based in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, we design and manufacture luxury jewellery and accessories for clients across the UK and internationally.

As a family-owned business with ambitious growth plans, including retail expansion in Birmingham and continued development of our London presence, we are looking for a commercially minded and hands-on Finance Director or Financial Controller to join our senior leadership team.

This is a varied role that goes far beyond finance. The successful candidate will play a key part in the day-to-day running of the business, working closely with the Managing Director and Owner, Henry Deakin.

The Role

Reporting directly to the MD and Owner, this position will oversee all financial operations of the business while also supporting broader operational, commercial, HR, and compliance functions.

With annual turnover of approximately £3m, the role would suit either an experienced Financial Controller ready to broaden their responsibilities or an established Finance Director looking for a dynamic SME environment where they can make a genuine impact.

The role is primarily based at our Birmingham factory headquarters, while also overseeing financial operations connected to our London retail activities and upcoming Birmingham retail expansion.

Key Responsibilities

Finance & Reporting

• Management of day-to-day financial operations
• Preparation of monthly management accounts and financial reporting
• Production of detailed board packs and business analysis
• Cashflow forecasting and budgeting
• VAT returns and statutory compliance
• Liaison with external accountants, auditors, banks, and advisors
• Oversight of payroll and financial controls
• Stock and manufacturing cost analysis

Operational & Commercial Support

Supporting the MD with day-to-day business operations

Assisting with renewals and administration of:

Insurance

Private medical cover

Subscriptions and supplier contracts

Compliance-related services

Supporting process improvement and operational efficiencies

Helping implement modern systems and technology solutions, including AI-driven tools and automation

HR & Compliance

Supporting HR administration and employee processes

Ensuring company compliance and governance standards are maintained

Assisting with policies, procedures, and operational documentation

Systems & Technology

Managing and improving financial and operational systems

Responsibility for stock management, controls, and reconciliation across Unleashed and Xero

Margin analysis and product profitability reporting

Credit control and supplier payment oversight

Working with:

Xero

Unleashed

Excel

Identifying opportunities for better reporting, automation, and smarter ways of working

About You

We are looking for someone who is commercially aware, highly organised, and comfortable operating in a fast-moving SME environment.

Essential Skills & Experience

Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)

Previous manufacturing experience

Experience in a senior finance role within an SME business

Strong management reporting and board pack preparation experience

Excellent Excel skills

Strong understanding of compliance and financial controls

Tech savvy and confident adopting new systems and AI tools

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Hands-on attitude with the ability to work across multiple areas of the business

Desirable

• Experience with Xero and Unleashed
• Retail or luxury goods experience
• Experience supporting HR or operational functions
• Family business or entrepreneurial business background

What We Offer

Competitive salary depending on experience

Discretionary performance-related bonus

Company pension scheme

Private medical insurance

Staff discount on products

Opportunity to join one of Britain’s most historic luxury brands

A varied and influential role with direct access to senior leadership

Dynamic and supportive team environment

Opportunity to contribute to business growth and expansion

Long-term career development within a growing company

This is an opportunity for an ambitious finance professional to become an integral part of a growing British luxury brand with genuine influence across the business.