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- Tasks: Lead the finance function and drive strategic planning in a growing engineering SME.
- Company: Respected family-owned engineering firm in Hertfordshire with exciting growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and clear path to Finance Director/CFO role.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on the company's evolution.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior-level experience in project-based environments.
- Other info: Embrace a hands-on leadership role with hybrid work flexibility after establishment.
The predicted salary is between 86000 - 103000 £ per year.
A highly respected, family-owned engineering and project-led SME in Hertfordshire is entering a new phase of planned growth - with a potential corporate event anticipated in the next 3–5 years.
To support this journey, we are partnering with the business on a confidential search for a senior finance leader to take full ownership of the finance function and help prepare the organisation for its next stage of evolution. This is a rare opportunity for a commercially minded, hands-on senior finance professional to join as Head of Finance / Finance Director (Designate), stepping into the No.1 finance leadership role from day one.
Responsibilities
- Lead the entire finance function within a growing, technically complex SME.
- Play a key role in strategic planning, long-term forecasting and commercial decision-making.
- Strengthen financial controls, reporting quality and project-level visibility across long-cycle engineering contracts.
- Drive operational and commercial improvements across costing, WIP, margins and cash flow.
- Partner with senior leaders to influence planning, performance and investment decisions.
- Progress into the Finance Director / CFO role within 18–24 months, aligned to the company’s growth trajectory.
Qualifications
- A qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with senior-level SME experience.
Required Skills
- Strong grounding in project-based, engineering, manufacturing or contract-led environments.
- Excellent forecasting, modelling, commercial analysis and operational finance capability.
- A hands-on, grounded leader comfortable working predominantly on-site in Hertfordshire.
- Someone able to challenge supportively, communicate clearly, and influence across technical and project-led teams.
- Strategic mindset.
Pay range and compensation package
- £100,000 – £120,000 base salary (DOE)
- Annual performance bonus
- Clear path to Finance Director/CFO within 18–24 months
- On-site in Hertfordshire (with hybrid flexibility once established)
- Additional benefits + long-term value/incentive potential
Equal Opportunity Statement
All candidates will be required to complete The Acuity Measure. Acuity Associates and our clients are committed to equal opportunities. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to fostering inclusive environments where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive. Acuity Associates is an executive search partner, trusted by privately owned and investor-backed businesses to appoint high-impact finance and executive leaders. We specialise in roles that drive value creation, transformation, and long-term growth.
Head of Finance (FD Designate) employer: Acuity Associates
Contact Detail:
Acuity Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance (FD Designate)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and engineering sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their projects, values, and future plans. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their growth journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on experience! Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past roles where you’ve led finance functions or improved financial processes. This will demonstrate your capability to take on the Head of Finance role from day one.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance (FD Designate)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Finance role. Highlight your experience in project-based environments and any relevant achievements that showcase your strategic mindset.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your hands-on leadership style and how you can drive operational improvements in a growing SME.
Showcase Your Qualifications: As a qualified accountant, don’t forget to emphasise your credentials (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) and senior-level experience. This is crucial for us to see that you have the right background for the challenges ahead.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to lead the finance function!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acuity Associates
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the engineering and project-led sectors. Be ready to discuss how you've improved financial controls and reporting quality in previous roles.
✨Showcase Strategic Thinking
This role requires a strategic mindset, so prepare examples of how you've contributed to long-term planning and commercial decision-making. Think about specific projects where your forecasting and modelling made a significant impact.
✨Be Hands-On
The company is looking for a grounded leader who can work on-site. Highlight your experience in hands-on finance roles and your ability to influence across technical teams. Share stories that illustrate your collaborative approach and how you’ve driven operational improvements.
✨Prepare for the Acuity Measure
All candidates will need to complete The Acuity Measure, so familiarise yourself with what this entails. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your skills and fit for the role, so take it seriously and prepare accordingly.
