Finance Controller
Armstrong Timber Engineering (ATE), Arklow
Reports to: Managing Director
About ATE
Armstrong Timber Engineering was established in 1996 and has built a strong reputation as a specialist in timber engineering and off-site manufacturing. With more than 30 years’ experience, we design, manufacture and deliver precision-engineered timber solutions for clients across Ireland. As a forward-thinking, family run company, we continue to invest in technology, process improvements and our people—ensuring we remain at the forefront of the industry. We're growing, but we're careful about how.
The role
We are seeking an operational and strategic financial leader who will be a genuine partner to the management team. You’ll manage the day-to-day accounts, keep on top of cash and working capital, and help set the commercial strategy to support our continued growth and expansion. You should have the right balance of business acumen and soft skills, be passionate about delivering exceptional service, and willing to personally develop in line with the needs of the role.
What you'll do
Finance & accounts
- Run day-to-day accounting: payables, receivables, the general ledger, payroll
- Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual accounts under Irish GAAP, and close the books on time
- Keep us compliant with Revenue (VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax, RCT) and manage the annual audit
- Build and maintain solid financial controls across ATE Group, and manage our banking relationships
- Manage company insurance, assess financial risk, and keep our registrations current with the CRO and Revenue
Cash & working capital
- Run a 13-week rolling cash flow forecast, with scenarios built in
- Manage the cash conversion cycle and chase debtors to keep days outstanding down
- Set supplier payment terms and pay creditors on time
- Manage foreign currency accounts to get the best value and reduce risk
Budgeting, performance & cost
- Lead the annual budget process and produce monthly management accounts with KPI dashboards
- Track gross margin, EBITDA, net profit, ROI and working capital ratios
- Review project profitability and project costing to keep the numbers accurate
- Oversee procurement and negotiate supplier contracts to protect margin
- Spot where we can cut costs or run more efficiently
Commercial & pricing
- Shape commercial strategy to grow revenue and profit
- Support tender pricing and contract negotiation on major projects
- Set pricing and margin targets for trusses, timber frames and posi joists
- Run the numbers on new opportunities and project bids, backed by financial modelling
Systems & team
- Own our finance and payroll system (Sage), and keep our financial data accurate and secure
- Build and grow the finance team as the business grows, and support the accounts team
- Work closely with operations, production, sales and design
- Present financial results to the Board and act as senior management’s advisor on financial matters
What we're looking for
Essential
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CPA)
- At least 10 years' post-qualification experience in financial management
- Commercial or finance management experience in manufacturing, construction or engineering
- Solid grasp of Irish tax: VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax, RCT
- Track record managing cash flow and working capital
- Strong with accounting software (Sage, Xero, QuickBooks, SAP or similar)
- Advanced Excel — financial modelling, pivot tables, complex formulas
- Experience preparing statutory accounts and managing external audits
- Commercial experience with pricing, tendering and contract negotiation
- Sharp analytical skills with the ability to delve into complex financial data
Nice to have
- Experience in timber, construction or manufacturing
- Understanding of construction payment practices (retention, stage payments)
- Experience managing finances across multiple sites or group companies
- Knowledge of grant funding and R&D tax credit claims
- Experience planning for growth
Pay & benefits
Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications, plus a performance bonus linked to company and individual results.
How to apply
Send us your CV, with a short cover letter on why this role is right for you.
References will be required.
For further details contact [email protected]
ATE is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
Pay: From €80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Bike to work scheme
- Company events
- Company pension
- Employee assistance program
Work authorisation:
Work Location: In person
