At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance for a dynamic rail infrastructure division and shape commercial decisions.
- Company: Fast-growing, private equity-backed group focused on transport and power networks.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a direct line to the CFO.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead and develop a small team of finance professionals.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role with real impact in a high-growth environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in contract accounting and strong commercial judgement.
The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.
Divisional Finance Director - Rail Infrastructure, PE-backed Group, London (with UK travel) This is an opportunity to lead finance for the rail infrastructure division of a fast-growing, private equity-backed group delivering critical work across the UK's transport and power networks.
The group has a clear ambition to grow beyond £1bn in revenue through organic growth and further acquisitions.
As Divisional Finance Director for Rail, you will play a key part in delivering that plan.
Reporting directly to the CFO, you will be the senior finance partner to the divisional Managing Director and leadership team, in a role with genuine visibility across the group.
You will help shape commercial decisions, strengthen financial control and support the integration of acquired businesses.
The role suits a hands‑on, confident and analytical finance leader who enjoys being close to the operation.
Rail work is project and contract‑based, and contracts can be complex.
You will bring clarity to the numbers, challenge constructively and give both the business and your team confidence in finance.
Based in London, with time at other UK business locations as necessary Why this role A divisional FD position with a direct reporting line to the CFO.
A seat at the table in a PE-backed group with a clear growth and acquisition strategy.
Real breadth: complex contracts, bids and tenders, integrations and team leadership.
Key responsibilities Lead the finance function for the rail division in a project and contract‑based environment.
Oversee contract accounting and WIP, and influence the Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR) process.
Own cash‑flow forecasting, and lead budgeting, forecasting and performance reporting for the division.
Prepare the monthly management accounts and reporting packs.
Manage the balance sheet and provide financial input into rail bids and tenders.
Get to grips with complex and challenging contracts, identifying commercial risks and opportunities early.
Act as a trusted business partner to the divisional MD and commercial and operational leaders.
Provide clear insight and constructive challenge to senior stakeholders, including Business Unit FDs.
Support the financial and operational integration of newly acquired businesses.
Strengthen financial controls, reporting and governance across the division.
Lead and develop a small team of qualified finance professionals, bringing confidence and support.
Key requirements Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
Solid technical grounding in contract accounting, WIP and CVR, gained in a project or contract‑based environment.
Rail or wider infrastructure experience would be an advantage.
A track record in fast‑paced, operationally complex businesses.
Strong commercial judgement, with the ability to turn performance data into decisions.
A confident, analytical and resilient style, with the credibility to challenge at Business Unit FD level.
Strong business‑partnering skills across finance, commercial and operational teams.
Comfortable combining strategic leadership with a hands‑on approach.
Experience of leading and developing finance teams.
Exposure to private equity‑backed, acquisitive or high‑growth businesses would be an advantage. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Divisional Finance Director employer: Cedar
Join a dynamic London-based organisation that values innovation and collaboration, offering a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to continuous training and growth opportunities while working on prestigious M&E projects. The supportive work culture encourages teamwork and creativity, making it an excellent place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Divisional Finance Director
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Cedar. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Divisional Finance Director
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 Cedar.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Cedar'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 Cedar
✨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 Cedar.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Cedar will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Cedar 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.
