At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and capital deployment for a growing Defence portfolio.
- Company: Austability Group Limited, a UK-based Defence and National Security holding company.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, structured progression, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a team that values innovation and technology in finance.
- Why this job: Own the finance function and make impactful decisions in a dynamic sector.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in corporate finance with a professional accounting qualification.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 € per year.
The Opportunity
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
Leadership Competencies:
- 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.
Selection Process
- Stage 1: Preliminary discussion with Talent Acquisition representative
- Stage 2: Technical interview with VP Finance
- Stage 3: Final interview with President
Head of Group Finance employer: Austability
Austability Group Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises precision and innovation in the Defence and National Security sector. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company provides structured progression opportunities linked to performance, alongside a competitive salary package. The collaborative culture fosters intellectual curiosity and encourages the adoption of emerging technologies, making it an ideal place for finance professionals looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Group Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the finance sector, especially those with ties to 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 their goals and how you can help achieve them.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you note. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨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 connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Group Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Group Finance role. Highlight your experience in corporate finance, group accounting, and any relevant work in Defence or National Security sectors.
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 specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage financial frameworks and capital deployment effectively.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves line management, be sure to highlight your leadership experience. Talk about how you've successfully managed teams and driven results in previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Austability
✨Know Your Numbers
As a candidate for the Head of Group Finance, you need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics and frameworks relevant to the role, such as IRR, MOIC, and cash flow forecasting. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves line management responsibilities, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your experience in managing multi-entity finance functions and how you've maintained operational integrity across different entities.
✨Demonstrate Your Tech Savvy
With a focus on AI and automation, it's crucial to show that you're not just about traditional finance. Discuss any experience you have with emerging technologies in finance, especially within ERP systems like D365. This will set you apart as a forward-thinking candidate.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making process. Think about potential risks in financial governance and how you would proactively address them. This will demonstrate your precision and rigour in financial reporting.
