At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance team, manage cash flow forecasts, and ensure financial compliance.
- Company: Join a fast-growing international distribution company known for its market expertise and reliable service.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £100-110k plus benefits, with hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team influencing strategic decisions in a high-energy environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in SMEs and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to work cross-culturally and engage with global clients.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
A dynamic and fast-growing international distribution company is seeking a commercially astute Head of Finance to lead its finance function. Operating across multiple territories, the business supplies products to a diverse portfolio of industrial sectors. With a well-established footprint, the company is known for its deep market expertise, reliable service delivery, and strong commercial partnerships.
This role reports directly to the Board and is a key part of the senior management team. The successful candidate will be instrumental in ensuring financial compliance, supporting strategic decision-making, and maintaining robust controls and processes to support continued growth.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead and manage the Finance Department, providing strategic direction and hands-on leadership
- Prepare and oversee weekly cash flow forecasts and reporting
- Coordinate the year-end audit and prepare statutory accounts in compliance with local and international standards
- Manage VAT (including multi-jurisdictional, particularly European) and other statutory tax obligations
- Maintain invoice discounting facilities, ensuring accurate monthly reconciliations
- Manage relationships with financial institutions and other key external stakeholders
- Monitor and manage the business’s foreign exchange exposure
- Produce monthly management accounts and weekly margin analysis reports for senior leadership
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent), ideally with a background in SMEs
- Proven experience leading finance teams and developing finance functions
- Strong understanding of international trade and the complexities of global commercial operations
- Prior experience working in a high-pressure, fast-paced trading or commercial environment
- Familiarity with ERP implementation projects (experience with NetSuite is a distinct advantage)
- Comfortable with balance sheet management, financial modelling, and technical accounting standards
- Experience working cross-culturally and managing the demands of a global client base
- Demonstrated ability to act as Company Secretary or support company governance functions
- In-depth knowledge of European VAT frameworks
- Clear and confident communicator, able to engage effectively across all levels of the business
- High resilience and composure under pressure, particularly during peak trading periods
- Strong attention to detail with a commitment to process integrity and compliance
- Skilled negotiator with excellent prioritisation and time management capabilities
- Comfortable working in a constantly evolving, high-energy environment
Head of Finance employer: Mature Accountants ltd
Contact Detail:
Mature Accountants ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in international B2B distribution. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the specific challenges they face.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in financial compliance and international trade regulations. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed finance teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've improved processes or driven strategic decisions that led to growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and culture to align your approach during interviews. Understanding our mission can help you articulate how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the Head of Finance role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance leadership, particularly in SMEs and international trade. Emphasise your qualifications (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) and any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage finance functions effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Discuss your experience with cash flow forecasting, statutory accounts, and managing VAT obligations. Show how your skills align with the company's needs and culture.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on roles where you led finance teams or were involved in strategic decision-making. Mention any experience with ERP systems, especially NetSuite, and your familiarity with financial compliance and governance.
Showcase Soft Skills: The role requires strong communication and negotiation skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders at all levels and managed high-pressure situations. This will demonstrate your fit for the dynamic environment of the company.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mature Accountants ltd
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Finance, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed finance teams in the past. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to inspire and guide others.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Make sure you can speak confidently about financial compliance, cash flow forecasting, and statutory accounts preparation. Brush up on your knowledge of international trade and VAT frameworks, as these are crucial for the role. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex financial situations in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations. Think of examples where you've had to make quick decisions or manage financial risks. This will show your resilience and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Engage with the Company’s Vision
Research the company’s market position and its strategic goals. During the interview, express how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their growth. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in being part of their journey.