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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, annual performance bonus, 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: Hybrid work flexibility after establishment and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
A highly respected, family-owned engineering and projectâled SME in Hertfordshire is entering a new phase of planned growth â with a potential corporate event anticipated in the next 3â5 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, handsâon 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, longâterm forecasting and commercial decisionâmaking.
- Strengthen financial controls, reporting quality and projectâlevel visibility across longâcycle 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 18â24 months, aligned to the company's growth trajectory.
Qualifications
- A qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with seniorâlevel SME experience.
Required Skills
- Strong grounding in projectâbased, engineering, manufacturing or contractâled environments.
- Excellent forecasting, modelling, commercial analysis and operational finance capability.
- A handsâon, grounded leader comfortable working predominantly onâsite in Hertfordshire.
- Someone able to challenge supportively, communicate clearly, and influence across technical and projectâled teams.
- Strategic mindset.
Pay Range and Compensation Package
- Annual performance bonus.
- Clear path to Finance Director/CFO within 18â24 months.
- Onâsite in Hertfordshire (with hybrid flexibility once established).
- Additional benefits + longâterm value/incentive potential.
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Fullâtime
Job function: Project Management, Strategy / Planning, Finance
Industries: Engineering Services, Manufacturing, Construction
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.
Head of Finance (FD Designate) in London employer: Acuity Associates
Contact Detail:
Acuity Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance (FD Designate) in London
â¨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, itâs all about who you know!
â¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their projects, values, and challenges. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
â¨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills and experience make you the perfect fit for the Head of Finance role. Keep it concise but impactful â you want to leave a lasting impression.
â¨Tip Number 4
Donât forget to apply through our website! Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance (FD Designate) in London
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance role. Highlight your experience in project-based environments and any relevant financial leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
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 position. Share specific examples of how you've driven operational improvements or influenced strategic decisions in previous roles. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Qualifications: As a qualified accountant, make sure to emphasise your credentials (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) prominently. Weâre looking for someone with a strong grounding in finance, so donât shy away from showcasing your qualifications and relevant experience in engineering or manufacturing sectors.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you donât miss out on any important updates. Plus, itâs super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acuity Associates
â¨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 or reporting quality in previous roles.
â¨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.
â¨Communicate Clearly
You'll be influencing senior leaders and technical teams, so practice articulating complex financial concepts in simple terms. Use clear, concise language and be prepared to answer questions that challenge your ideas.
â¨Demonstrate Hands-On Leadership
The company is looking for a grounded leader who can work on-site and engage with teams. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how youâve successfully led finance functions in similar environments, focusing on collaboration and support.
