Interim Head of Finance

Interim Head of Finance, overseeing a highly capable and well-established team, to bridge the gap until a permanent hire is made.

Client Details

A successful manufacturing and distribution business.

Description

• Financial Leadership & Strategy

  • Oversee and manage the financial operations of the business, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
  • Lead the finance team, ensuring they are equipped, motivated, and aligned with business objectives.
  • Act as a key advisor to the local leadership team, providing strategic financial insights to support decision-making and drive business growth.
  • Develop and implement the financial strategy for the business, ensuring alignment with overall company goals.

• Financial Reporting & Compliance

  • Take ownership of all technical aspects of the accounting, ensuring compliance with UK accounting standards (FRS 102) and tax regulations.
  • Sign off on monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, ensuring accuracy and integrity.
  • Oversee the preparation of the annual budget, forecasts, and financial plans, and present them to senior leadership.
  • Ensure adherence to statutory filing deadlines and support the preparation of audit documentation.

• Cost Control & Profitability

  • Provide in-depth commercial analysis on cost structures, margins, and profitability, identifying areas for improvement and cost-saving opportunities.
  • Oversee and drive cost reduction initiatives, working closely with operations to enhance efficiencies and improve margins.
  • Monitor cash flow, working capital, and capital expenditure to ensure optimal financial performance.

• Financial Planning & Analysis

  • Lead financial planning and analysis (FP&A) processes, including scenario modeling, forecasting, and variance analysis to support business decisions.
  • Provide regular financial updates to the leadership team, highlighting key trends, risks, and opportunities.
  • Conduct financial analysis to assess potential investment opportunities, new product lines, or market expansion.

• Team Management & Development

  • Manage, mentor, and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.
  • Ensure the team is adequately resourced and equipped to handle the day-to-day financial operations of the business.
  • Establish clear objectives, conduct performance reviews, and support staff in achieving personal and professional milestones.

• Commercial Insight & Decision Support

  • Provide commercial insight and actionable recommendations based on financial data, enabling leadership to make informed business decisions.
  • Collaborate with other departments (e.g., operations, sales, supply chain) to understand financial impacts and guide them in cost-effective decision-making.
  • Evaluate and support pricing strategies, contract negotiations, and financial terms with customers and suppliers.

• Internal Controls & Risk Management

  • Establish, monitor, and ensure the maintenance of strong internal financial controls to safeguard the company's assets.
  • Identify and manage financial and operational risks, advising the leadership team on risk mitigation strategies.
  • Ensure effective management of the company's tax obligations, including VAT, corporate tax, and other relevant taxes.

Profile

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
• Extensive experience in a senior finance role within the manufacturing or industrial sector.
• Strong technical accounting skills with a detailed understanding of UK accounting standards.
• Proven ability to provide commercial insight and support business decision-making.
• Leadership experience managing and developing a small finance team.
• Excellent communication skills, able to engage with both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a hands-on approach to delivering solutions.

Job Offer

Good day rate and flexible working