Finance Director

About SBD

Founded in 2013, SBD is fully vertically integrated, designing premium technical supports, clothing and accessories for strength sports, then manufacturing, marketing, and distributing worldwide. UK and US retail sales are handled directly through the UK headquarters and the wholly owned US subsidiary, with distribution into a further 55 countries through exclusive distribution agreements.

SBD’s products are renowned in strength sports for their sport specific designs, back by patents and design protections across all major markets, and the quality of their exclusively British manufacturing, which together have driven organic adoption among strength athletes. The company’s position has been firmly established through an official partnership with the International Powerlifting Federation and as title sponsor of the SBD World’s Strongest Man, alongside sponsorship with national teams and elite international athletes.

Over the last twelve years, SBD has grown to 140 staff and over £20million turnover, with considerable levers remaining to drive further multiplicative growth. The business has been built on establishing long-term relationships with all key stakeholders, with significant investment in our employee proposition, through a wide range of benefits and our CODE (Caring, Open, Dependable, and Empathic).

Last year SBD moved into a new, purpose-built headquarters on the Advanced Manufacturing Park, and for the first time brought all UK staff under the same roof. The new 100,000 sqft premises allows the company to overcome the historic restrictions of production capacity and pursue multiple avenues for growth.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a financial director to join our board, provide leadership and strategic insight, and support planning to deliver the next stages of our growth. We are open to candidates from any sector and background, but an understanding of manufacturing and experience of supporting sustainable year-on-year growth would be advantageous.

Role & Responsibilities

Board of directors

• Provide the CEO and Board with strategic input and high-quality financial analysis to inform long-term planning and decision making
• Prepare, update and stress test rolling financial forecast models to support strategic discussions and identify key funding requirements
• Plan, develop, and lead the financial strategy required to attract funding necessary for future stages of growth
• Manage existing and build new relationships within the financial community
• Act as a professional and positive ambassador to key stakeholders
• Oversee the collection and delivery of data to all departments

Lead the finance department

• Take responsibility for the group’s finances including UK and US subsidiaries
• Manage and develop a department of four people to deliver the day-to-day financial responsibilities
• Deliver effective financial reporting to the management team, stakeholders and lenders
• Oversee efficient cash management and rolling cash flow forecasting, including raw materials & finished stock
• Direct the preparation and monitoring of budgets to justify expenditure
• Develop scalable financial systems to support the business as it grows
• Implement and maintain effective controls and governance across the finance function
• Ensure a smooth and efficient audit process
• Oversee R&D tax relief & Patent Box claims

Person Specification

Demonstrable experience of:

• Working as a Financial Director level within a growth business
• Implementing long-term plans to support scaling
• Preparing, presenting, and delivering debt and equity funding
• Building strong relationships internally and with external stakeholders
• Offering strategic insight to support a senior leadership team

Alongside the following skills:

• Qualified Accountant with ACA, ACCA or CIMA
• Strategic and commercial minded
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Strong and supportive leadership style

Desirable:

• Knowledge of manufacturing
• International multi-site experience

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary
• Performance Related Bonus
• Benefits package

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our people and expects all staff and post-holders to share this commitment. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applicants. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

If you want to know more or wish to discuss anything in more detail, please contact or +44 1709 284465 to arrange a phone call with one of our team.