At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and build a scalable finance function for a diverse portfolio of businesses.
- Company: Join an ambitious Private Equity-backed group with growth potential.
- Benefits: Equity options, remote flexibility, and significant autonomy in your role.
- Other info: Opportunity for long-term growth and direct exposure to investment strategies.
- Why this job: Create something impactful from the ground up in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Chartered Accountant with 5+ years PQE and strong commercial finance experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
An ambitious and rapidly growing Private Equity-backed group is seeking a commercially minded Private Equity Portfolio Finance Manager to build and lead a scalable, "accountancy practice style" finance function supporting a diverse portfolio of businesses.
This is a rare opportunity to create something significant from the ground up. Initially, the function will provide accounting, finance, compliance, payroll, and advisory support to the businesses within the group's investment portfolio, spanning multiple sectors.
The group plans to grow the finance function in line with the continued growth of existing, and acquisition of new business, and offering accounting advisory services to external businesses by leveraging the extensive network and commercial relationships of the Private Equity group and its senior partners. This is an opportunity for an ambitious finance professional to help build a highly valuable business.
You will establish and lead a central finance and accounting function operating with the quality, structure, and commercial mindset of a modern accountancy practice.
The role combines:
- Commercial finance
- Operational management
- Client relationship management
- Team leadership
- Business development
- Strategic growth planning
You will work closely with senior stakeholders, investors, and portfolio leadership teams to create a scalable, high-performing finance capability capable of supporting rapid growth and future acquisitions.
The ideal individual will combine the credibility of a Big 4 or top-tier practice background with the commercial mindset required to operate within a fast-moving Private Equity environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily accounting operations, workflows, and operational procedures
- Build scalable systems, controls, and service delivery processes
- Support senior partners with strategic planning, growth initiatives, financial targets, and KPI monitoring
- Drive continuous improvement across finance operations and client service delivery
Client & Portfolio Management
- Build strong relationships across the Private Equity portfolio
- Manage key commercial and technical queries
- Act as a trusted finance advisor to business leaders and stakeholders
- Liaise with clients, HMRC, external providers, and professional advisors
Financial Oversight & Compliance
- Manage WIP, billing, debtors, and practice performance metrics
- Ensure compliance across GDPR, AML, regulatory standards, and internal controls
- Prepare and review statutory accounts, VAT returns, corporation tax returns, CIS returns, and payroll activities (local, bureau, outsourced)
About you
We are seeking a commercially minded and ambitious finance leader who wants to build something substantial.
You will likely be:
- A Chartered Accountant (ACA / ACCA or equivalent)
- Minimum 5 years PQE
- Ideally from a practice background
- Experienced within practice leadership, advisory, or commercial finance environments
- Commercially strong and confident operating with senior stakeholders and investors
- Experienced in managing teams, workflows, and client relationships
- Must have demonstrable experience preparing and managing CIS returns
- Strong understanding of Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) regulations and compliance requirements
Exposure to Mergers & Acquisitions, due diligence, or acquisition integration would be highly desirable. Most importantly, you will have the ambition and mindset to help build a highly successful finance function.
What's on Offer
- Opportunity to build and lead a scalable finance function
- Direct exposure to Private Equity leadership and investment strategy
- Support the group's growth strategy through involvement in acquisitions and financial integration projects
- Significant autonomy and influence
- Equity / share option potential
- Remote / hybrid flexibility
- Long-term growth and business-building opportunity rarely available in the market
Location
The role can be hybrid or office-based, with travel to East London & Nottingham.
Confidential Search
Due to the strategic nature of this appointment, this search is being conducted on a strictly confidential basis. Further details will be shared with suitable candidates during the process.
If you are interested in building a modern finance practice within an ambitious Private Equity-backed environment, we would welcome a confidential discussion.
Private Equity Portfolio Finance Manager - Berkshire in Reading employer: Butler Rose
Butler Rose is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development, offering a clear pathway to leadership roles within 18–24 months. With a supportive work culture and the flexibility of hybrid working options, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while contributing to the operational excellence of IT services across multiple sites in Kendal.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Equity Portfolio Finance Manager - Berkshire in Reading
✨Tap into Campus Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Private Equity Portfolio Finance Manager - Berkshire in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Butler Rose.
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Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Butler Rose's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Butler Rose
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Butler Rose.
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✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Butler Rose employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
