Deputy Head of Finance

Job Title: Deputy Head of Finance

Location: Biggleswade (with ad-hoc travel across the UK)

Salary: £60,000 - £70,000 per annum

Reporting to: Head of Finance

About the Client:

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Deputy Head of Finance to join our client’s team based in Biggleswade. This pivotal role will focus on driving month-end process improvements and overseeing ERP/system enhancements across a Group of UK entities. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to optimize financial operations and ensure accurate and timely financial reporting. The role will also involve regular travel to other UK sites to support ongoing initiatives and collaborate with local finance teams.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a forward-thinking finance professional who thrives in a fast-paced, multi-entity environment and is passionate about delivering continuous improvements in financial systems and processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Month-End Process Improvement:
  • Lead the month-end close process for the Group, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting across all entities.
  • Identify, implement, and drive improvements to existing month-end procedures to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
  • Collaborate with finance teams to reduce the month-end close cycle while maintaining high reporting standards.
• ERP/System Enhancements:
  • Work closely with IT and finance teams to identify and implement ERP improvements, ensuring systems are optimized for reporting accuracy and efficiency.
  • Drive changes and upgrades in financial systems, working closely with external providers where necessary.
  • Provide training and support to finance teams on new system features and improvements.
  • Ensure system data integrity, troubleshoot issues, and implement best practices for finance and reporting systems.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Partner with senior leadership teams, local finance teams, and other departments to ensure process changes are successfully implemented.
  • Collaborate with external auditors and ensure that all reporting and compliance requirements are met.
• Group Financial Reporting:
  • Assist in the preparation and review of consolidated Group financial statements.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and financial regulations.
  • Support in the preparation of annual budgets and forecasts.
• Leadership and Travel:
  • Regularly visit various Group sites across the UK to implement financial improvements and offer ongoing support to local teams.
  • Foster strong working relationships across the Group to ensure consistency in financial processes.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with a strong background in financial reporting and process improvement.
• Extensive experience in managing the month-end close process within a multi-entity organization.
• Proven track record of implementing ERP/system improvements in a finance function.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for process optimization.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate at all levels.
• Willingness to travel regularly across the UK to different sites.
• Proficiency in financial systems and ERP platforms; advanced Excel skills are essential.
• Experience in a manufacturing or multi-site organization is a plus.

What’s on Offer:

• Competitive salary of £70,000 per annum.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression within a growing company.