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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial finance across business units, influencing key decisions and driving strategic growth.
- Company: Join a respected, PE-backed Clinical Research Organisation known for high-quality services in clinical trials.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced environment where finance unlocks value and shapes the future of healthcare.
- Qualifications: Must be ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with experience in CROs and strong stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to lead a high-performing team and influence executive decisions.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 £ per year.
Clinical Research Organisation | PE-Backed | International Growth Business
To be considered for an interview, please make sure your application is full in line with the job specs as found below.
c. £120,000 + Benefits
London (Hybrid – 2 Days in Office)
Reference: 10090
The Company
Our client is a well-respected, PE-backed Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) with its head office based in London. They provide professional services to the pharmaceutical industry delivering high quality statistics and programming for clinical trials. Experiencing dramatic growth over recent years, they have developed an outstanding reputation in the international market.
The Role
Reporting directly to the CFO, this is a key appointment providing commercial finance leadership across a portfolio of business units and working closely with operational leaders and the executive team to shape commercial outcomes. You will act as a true business partner owning financial performance, influencing key decisions, and ensuring finance is embedded into every aspect of operational and commercial strategy. This role is suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment and is passionate about using finance to unlock value and drive strategic growth.
Beyond the numbers, you will lead and develop a small, high-performing team, nurturing talent and setting a strong example of leadership, integrity, and accountability. You will be a sounding board to the CFO and wider Executive, providing clear, commercially grounded financial advice and contributing to long-term planning and investment decisions.
The Person
ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with significant post-qualified experience, you will possess excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and challenge senior leaders in a constructive and commercially credible way. Strong communication, financial modelling, and data analysis capabilities are essential. Prior experience working within a CRO (Clinical Research Organisation) is essential to bring relevant sector knowledge to the role. A background in private equity environments and experience of M&A activity would be a distinct advantage.
How to Apply
To apply in confidence, please submit a fully detailed CV online, including your current remuneration package and quoting job reference 10090
Head of Commercial Finance employer: LORD SEARCH & SELECTION
Contact Detail:
LORD SEARCH & SELECTION Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Commercial Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the Clinical Research Organisation sector. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and leaders who can provide insights into the company culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends and challenges in commercial finance within the CRO industry. Being well-informed will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in stakeholder management and how you've influenced senior leaders in previous roles. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to drive strategic growth through financial insights.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's recent projects and achievements. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their goals, making you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Commercial Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualifications and significant post-qualified experience. Emphasise your stakeholder management skills and any relevant experience in a Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) to align with the job requirements.
Showcase Leadership Experience: In your application, provide examples of how you have led and developed high-performing teams. Highlight instances where you demonstrated integrity and accountability, as these qualities are crucial for the role.
Demonstrate Financial Acumen: Include specific examples of your financial modelling and data analysis capabilities. Discuss how you have influenced key decisions and contributed to strategic growth in previous roles, particularly in fast-paced environments.
Include Relevant Sector Knowledge: Mention any prior experience within a CRO and your understanding of private equity environments. If applicable, detail your involvement in M&A activities, as this will strengthen your application and show your fit for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at LORD SEARCH & SELECTION
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a candidate for the Head of Commercial Finance, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of financial principles. Be prepared to discuss your experience with financial modelling and data analysis, and how these skills have influenced strategic decisions in your previous roles.
✨Highlight Stakeholder Management Skills
This role requires excellent stakeholder management abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully influenced senior leaders and navigated complex discussions. Emphasise your capacity to challenge constructively while maintaining strong relationships.
✨Demonstrate Sector Knowledge
Having prior experience in a Clinical Research Organisation is essential. Be ready to discuss industry-specific challenges and how your background equips you to address them. This will show your potential employer that you can hit the ground running.
✨Exhibit Leadership Qualities
As you'll be leading a high-performing team, it's important to convey your leadership style. Share examples of how you've nurtured talent and set a strong example of integrity and accountability in your previous positions.
