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 and hybrid working options.
- Other info: 6-12 month contract with excellent opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Join a transformative role at Board level and make a significant impact on business growth.
- 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 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 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 in Watford employer: Cedar
Cedar offers an exceptional opportunity for professionals seeking to make a significant impact in the healthcare sector as an Interim CFO. With a focus on value creation and operational excellence, employees benefit from a dynamic work culture that promotes collaboration and strategic decision-making, all while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements in the vibrant Luton area. The company prioritises employee growth through hands-on leadership roles and exposure to high-level financial operations, making it an attractive employer for those looking to advance their careers in a PE-backed environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CFO - Luton, Bedfordshire in Watford
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues or industry leaders. 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 showcase your experience and how it aligns with the role. Practice common questions, but also be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you’ve driven value creation or improved operational performance.
✨Follow Up
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the position and remind them of your key strengths. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and professional.
✨Apply Through Our Website
We’ve got loads of opportunities listed on our website, so make sure you check it out regularly. Applying directly through us can sometimes give you an edge, as we’re always looking for top talent to connect with our clients.
We think you need these skills to ace CFO - Luton, Bedfordshire in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in PE-backed businesses and your track record in financial leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Interim CFO, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
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. We love seeing candidates who can articulate their understanding of value creation and operational performance, so make it personal and relevant.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, be sure to highlight specific experiences that relate to the key responsibilities of the role. Whether it’s leading financial exit readiness or enhancing KPI reporting, we want to see how you’ve made an impact in similar situations.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cedar
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the healthcare sector and be ready to discuss how you've driven EBITDA improvement and cash optimisation in previous roles.
✨Understand the PE Landscape
Familiarise yourself with private equity dynamics and how they influence decision-making. Be prepared to discuss your experience with PE exits and how you’ve partnered with investors to create value.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong leadership skills. Think about examples where you’ve led finance teams through transformation or operational improvements. Be ready to share how you foster collaboration across departments like IT and procurement.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in complex environments. Prepare scenarios where you had to enhance reporting quality or strengthen governance, and explain your thought process and outcomes.
