Head of Finance

Head of Finance

Full-Time 100000 - 120000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Cognisant

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial strategy and reporting for a major residential joint venture.
  • Company: High-profile development firm in Cambridgeshire with a focus on growth.
  • Benefits: Six-figure salary, clear progression to Finance Director, and autonomy.
  • Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities to collaborate across various teams.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a senior role with genuine influence and career advancement.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in commercial finance and joint ventures.

The predicted salary is between 100000 - 120000 £ per year.

A rare opportunity has arisen for an ambitious finance professional to step into a Head of Finance role within a major, high-profile residential joint venture in Cambridgeshire. This is a senior position at the heart of a large-scale, multi-phase development, offering full financial ownership and a clear route toward a future Finance Director position.

The position requires a finance professional with JV exposure, preferably within the residential development sector. COINS is beneficial and you will have experience of both strategic capabilities with a hands-on approach.

As Head of Finance, you will act as the financial lead for the joint venture, owning all forecasting, reporting and financial performance. You will play a key role within the senior management team, influencing strategic decision-making and building strong relationships with joint venture partners and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and drive the business plan, budgets and forecasts, aligned to strategic objectives.
  • Partner with operational teams to provide commercial insight, challenge and support decision-making.
  • Lead all monthly, quarterly and annual reporting cycles, ensuring timely, accurate delivery.
  • Manage year-end processes and external audit relationships.
  • Take full ownership of the joint venture financial model, including scenario testing and performance analysis.
  • Ensure compliance with internal controls, accounting standards, and governance frameworks.
  • Oversee detailed cash flow forecasting, supporting both short and long-term planning.
  • Collaborate closely with Sales, Construction, Commercial, Land and Technical teams to monitor performance, risk and cost.
  • Review and challenge cost forecasts, valuations and project risks.

You will be a qualified accountant with a track record in a commercial finance role, currently operating at Finance Manager or Financial Controller level, ready to step up or Head of Finance ready for a fresh challenge. Experience in property, construction, or project-based environments is highly desirable.

For further details and to register your interest, please send your CV to daniel@cognisantsearch.com in the first instance.

Head of Finance employer: Cognisant

Join a leading residential joint venture in Cambridgeshire as the Head of Finance, where you will enjoy a competitive six-figure salary and a clear pathway to becoming a Finance Director. Our dynamic work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth while allowing you to make a significant impact on strategic decision-making within a high-profile development project. With a focus on employee development and a supportive environment, this role offers not just a job, but a meaningful career in a thriving sector.

Cognisant

Contact Details:

Cognisant Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance

Financial Ownership
Joint Venture Exposure
Strategic Financial Planning
Forecasting
Reporting
Financial Performance Management
Relationship Building