At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance transformation projects and improve systems for better decision-making.
- Company: Purpose-driven UK financial services organisation with a strong social mission.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, six weeks holiday, pension scheme, and hybrid working.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with genuine opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while working closely with senior stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance systems and transformation within regulated environments.
Location: Kings Hill, Kent — hybrid (2–4 days per week on site)
Contract: Fixed-term contract, up to 18 months | Full time, 35 hours per week
Salary: £110,000 – £130,000 per annum, depending on experience
Closing date: 12 August 2026
The opportunity:
Are you a finance change leader who enjoys the messy middle — the systems, the data, the reporting that everyone relies on but nobody has yet made fit for purpose? Our client, a well-established and purpose-led UK financial services organisation, is looking for a Head of Finance Transformation to lead a significant programme of transformation across its Finance function. This is a hands-on leadership role with genuine scope: you will own the planning and delivery of new finance systems, improved management information, and the reporting capability that underpins decision-making and governance at board level. It is an 18-month fixed-term appointment, which makes it well suited to an experienced interim or a permanent finance change professional who wants a defined, high-impact programme on their CV rather than BAU role.
Why this organisation:
- A values-driven business where the work has a clear social purpose behind it — not just a balance sheet
- Genuine executive visibility: you will work directly with senior and executive stakeholders from day one
- A supportive, collaborative Finance team rather than a heavily siloed function
- Permanent hybrid working, not a temporary concession
- Strong track record of investing in people, with real development and learning opportunities
- Established, financially stable, and well regarded within its sector
Key responsibilities:
- Lead the delivery of the Finance change agenda across systems, reporting and process improvement
- Manage the implementation of a new Sage general ledger, including all associated system interfaces
- Deliver strategic projects spanning lending migration, regulatory reporting and treasury system enhancements
- Coordinate testing, implementation and stakeholder engagement across the finance change portfolio
- Develop and mature management information and data analytics capability across Finance
- Own finance accountability for critical spreadsheet controls and role-based access governance
- Translate business requirements into practical technical solutions, and communicate progress clearly to executive stakeholders
About you:
- Substantial experience delivering finance systems and finance transformation projects within a regulated financial services environment
- Strong working knowledge of finance reporting, treasury systems and management information development
- Practical experience of general ledger implementation and integration with upstream transaction processing systems
- Confident with data analysis and data mining, and comfortable moving between the business and technical detail
- Proven ability to influence and manage senior and executive stakeholders on strategic technology initiatives
- Excellent communicator — able to make complex technical concepts land with non-technical audiences
- Experience of treasury-related or regulatory reporting change programmes would be a distinct advantage
What's on offer:
- £110,000 – £130,000 per annum, depending on experience
- Six weeks' holiday plus bank holidays
- Pension scheme with employer contributions above market standard
- Permanent hybrid working
- Wide range of professional and personal development opportunities
- Social impact and volunteering benefit schemes
- An inclusive culture where every voice genuinely counts
Head of Finance Transformation in West Malling employer: Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited
This industry-leading organisation is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee engagement and wellbeing, fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. As a Senior Payroll Administrator, you will thrive in a collaborative environment where your contributions are valued, and you will have ample opportunities for professional development and career progression. With a focus on innovation and continuous improvement, this fully office-based role offers flexibility around start and finish times, making it an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful employment.
Contact Details:
Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance Transformation in West Malling
✨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 Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited. 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 Head of Finance Transformation in West Malling
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 Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited.
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 Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited'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 Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited
✨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 Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited.
✨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 Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited 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 Cobb & Jones Recruitment Limited 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.
