At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operational performance in a dynamic healthcare services environment.
- Company: PE-backed healthcare services platform focused on value creation and exit readiness.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate of £1,250-£1,500 with hybrid working options.
- Other info: 6-12 month contract with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a transformative role at Board level.
- Qualifications: Proven Interim CFO experience in PE-backed businesses with strong financial leadership skills.
Cedar is partnered with a PE-backed healthcare services business to appoint an Interim Chief Financial Officer. This is a 6-12 month contract offering £1,250-£1,500 per day, based in the Luton area with hybrid working (3-4 days per week in the office).
The role sits at Board level and focuses on value creation, operational performance, exit readiness and financial leadership across an investor-backed services platform, working closely with the CEO, Board and private equity sponsor.
The Company
The organisation is a PE-backed healthcare services platform operating within a regulated, operationally intensive environment. Following a period of transformation and financial stabilisation, the business is now focused on EBITDA improvement, operational leverage, enhanced reporting quality and preparation for a future transaction process. Finance plays a central role in supporting both operational performance and strategic decision-making.
The Role
The Interim CFO will lead the business through the next phase of value creation and exit preparation, ensuring a commercially focused and investor-ready finance function. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading financial and operational exit readiness, including preparation for future diligence processes
- Partnering with the CEO and PE sponsor on value creation, strategic planning and performance improvement initiatives
- Owning forecasting, budgeting, cashflow management and long-range planning
- Enhancing KPI reporting and management information across margins, cash and operational performance
- Driving EBITDA improvement, working capital optimisation and cost discipline
- Strengthening controls, governance, reporting quality and balance sheet ownership
- Managing lender, investor and external advisor relationships
- Leading the finance function whilst improving collaboration across finance, IT and procurement
Your Profile
- Proven Interim CFO with experience in PE-backed or investor-led businesses
- Track record supporting PE exits, refinancing processes or transaction events
- Strong experience driving value creation, cash optimisation and operational improvement
- Deep technical grounding across reporting, controls and governance
- Commercially credible with Boards, investors, lenders and advisors
- Hands-on and comfortable operating in complex, service-led environments
Compensation & Working Arrangements
The day rate for this Interim CFO role is £1,250-£1,500 per day. The role is based in the Luton area with hybrid working (3-4 days per week in the office). This is a 6-12 month assignment supporting a significant value creation and exit preparation programme within a PE-backed business.
CFO - Luton, Bedfordshire employer: Cedar Recruitment
Cedar offers an exceptional opportunity for experienced finance professionals to join a dynamic, PE-backed healthcare services business in Luton. With a focus on value creation and operational excellence, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that prioritises strategic decision-making and professional growth. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility while being part of a transformative journey in a regulated environment, making it an attractive employer for those seeking meaningful impact in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CFO - Luton, Bedfordshire
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues or industry contacts. You never know who might have a lead on your next big opportunity.
✨Ace the Interview
When you land that interview, make sure you’re prepared to discuss not just your experience but also how you can add value to the company. Research their current challenges and think about how your skills can help them achieve their goals. Show them you’re the solution they need!
✨Follow Up Like a Boss
After your interview, don’t forget to send a follow-up email thanking them for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the role and remind them of your key strengths. Keep it short and sweet, but make sure it stands out!
✨Apply Through Our Website
We’ve got loads of opportunities listed on our website, so make sure you check it out! Applying directly through us can sometimes give you an edge, as we’re always looking for top talent to connect with our clients. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace CFO - Luton, Bedfordshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Interim CFO. Highlight your experience in PE-backed businesses and any relevant achievements in value creation and operational performance. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
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 experiences that align with the job description, especially around financial leadership and exit readiness. Let us know what excites you about this opportunity!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on quantifiable achievements. Did you drive EBITDA improvement or enhance reporting quality? We love numbers, so share those metrics that demonstrate your impact in previous positions!
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’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cedar Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a potential CFO, you need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key metrics like EBITDA, cash flow management, and operational performance indicators. Be ready to discuss how you've driven value creation in previous roles.
✨Understand the PE Landscape
Familiarise yourself with private equity dynamics and how they influence decision-making. Be prepared to talk about your experience with PE exits and how you've navigated complex financial environments. This will show that you understand the unique challenges of the role.
✨Showcase Strategic Thinking
The role requires a strong focus on strategic planning and performance improvement. Prepare examples of how you've partnered with CEOs and boards to enhance operational leverage and reporting quality. Highlight your hands-on approach to driving change.
✨Build Relationships
Since you'll be managing relationships with lenders, investors, and advisors, think about how you've successfully built rapport in the past. Be ready to discuss your communication style and how you foster collaboration across teams, especially in finance, IT, and procurement.
