At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a fast-growing bakery brand.
- Company: Join Cornish Bakery, a mission-driven company redefining hospitality.
- Benefits: Be part of a people-first culture with visible impact on growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a beloved brand while driving sustainable growth.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 10+ years in senior finance leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence a thriving independent business with ambitious goals.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
A rare and exciting opportunity to join Cornish Bakery. Cornish Bakery isn’t just a bakery; it’s a movement with a mission to nourish people while redefining what a bakery is, does, and can be. With more than 73 bakeries, 800+ team members, and a brand loved nationwide, Cornish Bakery has become one of the UK’s fastest-growing premium bakery operators.
Now, with a bold plan to scale beyond 100 sites and reach £100m turnover, the business is entering a pivotal phase of transformation. To support this next chapter, they are seeking an exceptional Finance Director to join the Board and help shape the future of one of the UK’s most exciting hospitality success stories.
The Opportunity
As Finance Director, you will join the Operational Leadership Team, reporting directly to the Managing Director and working closely with the Founder. You will lead the financial strategy, operations, and commercial decision-making for a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, and values-driven organisation.
Key Responsibilities will include:
- Nourish People
- Champion a people-first culture and the mission to Change Hospitality for Good.
- Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing finance team across management accounting, financial accounting, payroll, and commercial finance.
- Foster collaboration across the business and role-model the company’s purpose and values.
- Shape the future structure of the finance function as the business scales.
- Strategic Development
- Partner with the Founder and MD to build a clear 5-year financial and commercial plan.
- Lead scenario planning, risk management, and capital allocation strategy.
- Provide strategic insight to drive sustainable growth, efficiency, and long-term value creation.
- Develop the balanced scorecard metrics across Happy Team, Happy Customers, Happy Commercials.
- Financial Operations
- Lead all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and monthly management accounting.
- Drive continuous improvement in systems, processes, and reporting.
- Oversee payroll for 800+ employees and ensure compliance across tax, audit, and regulatory requirements.
- Manage cash flow, treasury strategy, and banking relationships.
- Commercial Growth
- Present commercial opportunities to the Operating Board and challenge thinking where needed.
- Lead initiatives that drive revenue, margin, and EBITDA growth.
- Develop financial modelling to support pricing, product, and market decisions.
- Identify grants, rebates, and government initiatives to support expansion.
- New Openings & Investments
- Provide financial leadership for acquisitions, new site openings, and major investments.
- Conduct due diligence, evaluate business cases, and forecast returns.
- Review commercial contracts, property agreements, and refurbishment projects.
- Manage key supplier relationships across legal, utilities, food, IT, and more.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising culture or quality.
- Explore opportunities to bring production or services in-house.
Skills & Experience
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- 10+ years’ senior finance leadership experience, ideally in multi-site hospitality, retail, or service environments.
- Proven track record in fast-growth, founder-led, entrepreneurial businesses.
- Strong commercial acumen with experience driving profitable growth.
- Deep knowledge of UK financial regulations, tax, and reporting.
- Expertise in financial modelling, forecasting, and scenario planning.
- Exceptional communication skills, able to translate complex financials for non-financial leaders.
- High emotional intelligence, resilience, and calmness under pressure.
- A strategic thinker with a hands-on, sleeves-rolled-up approach.
Why Join Cornish Bakery?
Because this is more than a finance role. It’s a chance to help shape a brand with heart, ambition, and a clear sense of purpose. A business that invests in its people, celebrates craft, and is redefining what great hospitality looks like. If you want to be part of a high-growth, values-led organisation where your impact will be visible, meaningful, and celebrated — this is the role.
How to Apply
Alexander Daniels have been exclusively retained by Cornish Bakery to manage this appointment. All direct applications will be automatically forwarded to Nick Singh at Alexander Daniels, the recruitment partner for this role. To express interest or request a confidential conversation, please contact Nick Singh at Alexander Daniels on 07973 757974 or email your interest to nick.singh@alexanderdaniels.co.uk.
Finance Director in Paulton employer: Cornish Bakery
Contact Detail:
Cornish Bakery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director in Paulton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and hospitality sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential employers or colleagues. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Cornish Bakery and understanding their mission. Think about how your experience aligns with their values and growth plans. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their exciting journey!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! During interviews, share examples of how you've led teams and driven financial strategies in previous roles. Highlight your ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that Finance Director role!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director in Paulton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role and the company shine through. We want to see how you connect with Cornish Bakery's mission to nourish people and redefine hospitality.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience that aligns with the Finance Director role. We’re looking for specific examples of your leadership in finance, especially in fast-paced environments like hospitality or retail.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great fit for this pivotal role in shaping the future of Cornish Bakery.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure they get to the right people at Alexander Daniels.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cornish Bakery
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to Cornish Bakery, such as EBITDA growth and cash flow management. Be ready to discuss how you've driven financial success in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Cornish Bakery values a people-first culture, so be prepared to share examples of how you've led and inspired finance teams. Highlight your experience in fostering collaboration and developing high-performing teams, as this will resonate with their mission.
✨Align with Their Vision
Understand Cornish Bakery's ambitious plans for growth and transformation. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their 5-year financial strategy and support their goal of reaching £100m turnover. Show that you're not just a numbers person, but someone who can drive strategic development.
✨Prepare for Scenario Planning
Given the fast-paced nature of the business, be prepared to discuss your experience with scenario planning and risk management. Think of specific examples where you've successfully navigated financial challenges and how you can apply those skills to help Cornish Bakery thrive.