At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and capital deployment for a growing Defence portfolio.
- Company: Austability Group Limited, a key player in Defence and National Security.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, structured progression, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and technology in finance.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in finance while supporting national security initiatives.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in corporate finance with a professional accounting qualification.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 £ per year.
Austability Group Limited, a UK-based Defence and National Security holding company managing a portfolio of contracting subsidiaries across Five Eyes nations and partner countries, is seeking a Head of Group Finance to lead the operational delivery of the Group’s financial management framework and capital deployment execution. This appointment represents an opportunity to own the finance function beneath VP level — combining rigorous financial governance and statutory compliance with the execution of capital deployment decisions across a growing Defence and National Security portfolio. The successful candidate will build the reporting, controls, and investment tracking infrastructure that enables AGL to meet the governance standard demanded by Defence clients, lenders, and the Board.
The Role
Reporting to the Vice President, Finance, the Head of Group Finance is the senior finance professional within the Finance Directorate. The role carries dual accountability: maintaining the operational integrity of AGL’s financial management framework across all Group entities, and transforming approved capital allocation decisions into precise, timely deployments that maximise long-term shareholder value. The role provides line management of the Senior Group Finance Officer and must maintain business continuity readiness to assume direct operational control of the SGFO function.
Key Accountabilities
- Own delivery of management accounts, external audit coordination, going concern assessment, and statutory filings to Board standard
- Execute approved capital allocation decisions: equity injections, intercompany loans, acquisition funding, and subsidiary capital calls
- Build and maintain the Group’s investment performance monitoring framework (IRR, MOIC, payback analysis)
- Produce cash flow forecasts, manage liquidity, coordinate debt facility drawdowns, and maintain covenant compliance
- Manage intercompany funding mechanics, transfer pricing documentation, and management fee recognition
- Provide strategic programme ownership of finance workstreams within the D365 ERP implementation
- Identify and implement AI, automation, and emerging technology to strengthen financial controls
- Line-manage the Senior Group Finance Officer with business continuity coverage
Professional Experience
- Minimum 5 years’ post-qualification experience in corporate finance, group accounting, or treasury
- Multi-entity or group holding company experience with line management responsibility
- IFRS consolidation, statutory reporting, cash forecasting, and investment performance analysis
- Demonstrable experience applying AI, automation, or emerging technology within a finance function
- Experience within or serving Defence, National Security, or adjacent regulated sectors is highly desirable
Qualifications
- Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) with current membership
- Degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related discipline
- AGL welcomes candidates who demonstrate equivalent capability through alternative career paths
- Precision and rigour in Board-level financial reporting
- Proactive escalation — risks surfaced early with options, not after the window has closed
- Process discipline and commitment to auditable records
- Intellectual curiosity and a bias toward technology adoption over manual processes
- Discretion in handling commercially sensitive financial and investment information
Remuneration
A salary in the range of £70,000–£85,000 per annum is offered, commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate. A structured progression framework is in place, with advancement to £85,000–£100,000 linked to KPI delivery and capability development within the first 24 months.
Group Finance Leader: Capital Allocation & Controls employer: Austability
Austability Group Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises professional growth and innovation within the Defence and National Security sector. With a strong emphasis on employee development, the company provides structured progression opportunities linked to performance, alongside a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology in financial management. Located in the UK, AGL fosters a culture of precision and collaboration, ensuring that employees are equipped to meet the high standards demanded by clients and stakeholders alike.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Finance Leader: Capital Allocation & Controls
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the finance sector, especially those with experience in Defence and National Security. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company’s financial strategies and recent projects. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of capital allocation and how it impacts long-term shareholder value.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Finance Leader: Capital Allocation & Controls
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in corporate finance, group accounting, or treasury, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications like ACA, ACCA, or CIMA. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Head of Group Finance role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed financial frameworks or capital allocation decisions in the past. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Tech Savvy:Since we’re keen on AI and automation, make sure to highlight any experience you have with emerging technologies in finance. Whether it’s D365 ERP implementation or other tech tools, let us know how you’ve used them to enhance financial controls and reporting.
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 don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Austability
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Group Finance Leader, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics like IRR, MOIC, and cash flow forecasts. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles, especially in multi-entity environments.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves line management of the Senior Group Finance Officer, so highlight your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, driven performance, and maintained operational integrity in finance functions.
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Familiarise yourself with the Defence and National Security landscape. Research current trends, challenges, and regulations that impact financial management in this sector. This knowledge will show your commitment and understanding of the unique environment you'll be working in.
✨Emphasise Technology Adoption
With a focus on AI and automation, be prepared to discuss how you've leveraged technology to enhance financial controls. Share specific examples of tools or systems you've implemented and the impact they had on efficiency and accuracy in financial reporting.
