Head of Finance in Hemel Hempstead

Big brand presence. Small company agility. Real commercial impact. Are you a hands‑on finance leader who thrives in a growing, entrepreneurial business? Do you enjoy being close to the numbers, the stock and the decisions that genuinely shape performance? If you have built your career in smaller, fast‑moving companies and have strong experience working with stock, this is an opportunity to step into a highly influential leadership role.

About Our Client

• Globally recognised company with a strong brand heritage and international reach.
• Operating across 60 global territories.
• Approaching its 40th year.
• Strong online and in‑store presence.

With continued growth and scale ahead, our client is now seeking a commercially minded, hands‑on Head of Finance to lead the finance function within a fast‑paced, entrepreneurial environment.

The Role – Head of Finance

This is a senior and highly influential role for someone who enjoys being close to the detail while also providing clear commercial insight at leadership level. This is not a purely strategic or heavily delegated position. The successful candidate will bring a practical, roll‑up‑your‑sleeves approach, working closely with operations and logistics to ensure strong financial control and effective decision‑making. Reporting directly to the COO, the Head of Finance will take full ownership of the finance function, including payroll, systems, controls and external relationships.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Develop and lead the corporate fundraising strategy and manage relationships with financial partners and investors.
• Full ownership of day‑to‑day finance operations including management accounts, budgeting, forecasting and cashflow.
• Lead annual sales forecasting, stock purchasing and budgeting processes.
• Design and produce monthly MI packs and KPIs.
• Weekly and monthly sales analysis and reporting.
• Maintain the 3‑year financial forecasting model.
• Maintain sales and stock flow forecasting models.
• Treasury management and cashflow reporting.
• Oversee the year‑end audit process and liaise with external auditors.
• Oversee and control the annual stock take.
• Statutory reporting.
• Oversee company IT facilities and manage external IT support providers.

Cost Control & Commercial Insight

• Maintain detailed oversight of costs across the business.
• Provide clear, actionable commercial insight to support decision‑making.
• Identify and implement opportunities for cost efficiency and margin improvement.

Stock & Operations Collaboration

• Work closely with operations and logistics on stock control, valuation and forecasting.
• Ensure accurate inventory reporting and alignment between finance and operational data.
• Support continuous improvement of stock management processes and controls.

Requirements About You

• Has worked in a small or mid‑sized company environment.
• Has strong, hands‑on experience with stock and inventory‑led businesses.
• Is commercially focused and confident operating at leadership level.
• Enjoys being embedded in the business rather than operating at arm’s length.
• Wants genuine ownership, autonomy and influence.

Why Join?

• A senior leadership role with real visibility and impact.
• A growing international business with strong brands and ambitious plans.
• An entrepreneurial culture where finance is a true business partner.
• The opportunity to shape and scale the finance function during an exciting growth phase.

Salary: up to £80K