At a Glance
- 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.
- Other info: Embrace a hands-on leadership role with hybrid work flexibility after establishment.
- 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.
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
Acuity Associates offers an exceptional opportunity for an Interim Chief Financial Officer to join a dynamic AIM-listed business at a pivotal moment in its growth. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and leadership, the company fosters a supportive work culture that values proactive engagement and professional development, ensuring that employees can thrive and make a meaningful impact. Located in a vibrant business environment, this role not only provides competitive remuneration but also the chance to shape the financial strategy of a forward-thinking organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance (FD Designate)
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
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Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Acuity Associates. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance (FD Designate)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Acuity Associates.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Acuity Associates's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acuity Associates
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Acuity Associates.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Acuity Associates will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Acuity Associates employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
