At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global finance transformation and design innovative operating models.
- Company: Dynamic international organisation focused on finance excellence.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, hybrid working, private medical insurance, and generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance with cutting-edge tools and impactful strategies.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in finance transformation and systems.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
About the Role
Lead the design and delivery of a global finance operating model, embedding innovation, driving performance, and enabling smarter, data‑led decision‑making across a complex, international organisation. The Head of Finance Transformation & Operations works closely with the CFO and Group Finance Director to shape the future of the global finance function.
Key Responsibilities
- Transformation & Operating Model Design: Shape and implement the global finance target operating model, develop a clear, prioritised transformation roadmap, balance quick wins with long‑term capability building, and translate the roadmap into sustainable operational improvements.
- Digital, Systems & Data Excellence: Champion digital tools, automation and analytics; own and evolve the finance systems landscape (including ERP platforms); lead system implementations, upgrades and optimisation initiatives; improve data quality, reporting capability and insight delivery.
- Processes & Controls: Optimise core finance processes (R2R, P2P, O2C) to drive efficiency and scalability; strengthen governance, controls and audit readiness; embed best practice aligned to accounting standards and internal policy.
- Transformation & Change: Lead end‑to‑end transformation delivery across processes, systems and organisational design; partner with Finance and IT to align technology with business needs; embed new ways of working and ensure strong adoption across global teams.
- Operations & Projects: Provide leadership to Finance Project Delivery and Digital & Systems teams; oversee a portfolio of transformation and operational initiatives; balance delivery of strategic programmes with business‑as‑usual priorities; drive consistent, high‑quality project and change practices.
- Collaboration & Influence: Act as a trusted partner to the CFO and senior finance leadership; build strong relationships across Finance, IT, Operations and Commercial teams; communicate with clarity and influence decision‑making at senior level.
Qualifications & Experience
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
- Proven experience leading finance transformation and operating model design from strategy through to execution.
- Strong knowledge of finance operations, systems and control environments.
- Experience with ERP systems, finance platforms and digital tools (e.g. BI, automation).
- Track record of delivering complex transformation in global or matrixed organisations.
- Familiarity with process improvement methodologies (e.g. Lean, Six Sigma).
- Desirable: experience in shared services or global process ownership models; background in professional services or construction; exposure to Agresso or Deltek Vision.
Personal Qualities
- Strategic thinker who translates vision into practical delivery.
- Collaborative, people‑focused leader who builds high‑performing teams.
- Commercially aware and comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels.
- Passionate about continuous improvement, innovation and digital adoption.
- Resilient, adaptable and confident influencing senior stakeholders.
Success Looks Like
- Delivery of a clearly defined and embedded global finance operating model.
- Improved consistency, governance and control across finance.
- Smarter decision‑making through enhanced systems and data.
- Brought a sustainable transformation roadmap with measurable outcomes.
- Global adoption of new processes, systems and ways of working.
Benefits
- Hybrid working arrangements.
- Attractive salary and benefits package, including private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection and a generous company pension scheme.
- 10% car allowance and a flexible holiday entitlement of 25 days per annum.
Head of Finance Transformation & Operations in London employer: Buro Happold Limited
As a leading global organisation, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. Our Head of Finance Transformation & Operations role offers the opportunity to drive meaningful change while benefiting from a hybrid working model, competitive salary, and comprehensive benefits including private medical insurance and a generous pension scheme. We are committed to employee growth, providing ample opportunities for professional development and the chance to work alongside senior leadership in shaping the future of our finance function.
