At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape finance functions and transform data into actionable insights for a spirits business.
- Company: Established spirits company with a portfolio of premium brands.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, flexible hours, and direct exposure to senior stakeholders.
- Other info: Opportunity to build processes that outlast your engagement.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact while enjoying meaningful work without full-time commitment.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial finance, advanced Excel skills, and knowledge of pricing metrics.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
This is a well-established spirits business with a portfolio of recognisable brands, a capable finance team, and the ambition to get sharper. The infrastructure is there, making this an excellent opportunity for a Commercial Finance Leader to shape and enhance the finance function by building the reporting, forecasting and performance frameworks that transform data into actionable commercial insight. This is a fractional engagement, one to two days per week, suited to an individual who wants meaningful work without a full-time commitment. The scope is substantive, the stakeholder access is senior, and the output you create will have a lasting footprint in the business.
How you'll make your mark
- You will design and embed a monthly business review process that gives the Commercial Director clear visibility of volume, NSV, profit and overheads, alongside channel‑level KPI reporting and a structured risks and opportunities framework.
- You will connect this to the S&OP cycle to create a forecasting process that works across both volume and value.
- Beyond the review process, the priorities are:
- Automate and improve the commercial reporting suite, reducing manual intervention and building on the current capabilities.
- Streamline the monthly A&P reconciliation process.
- Analyse pricing performance across customers and channels, identifying exposure and opportunity across both own label and branded lines.
- Support the on‑trade and marketing teams with spend tracking and ROI measurement that is robust and repeatable.
What you bring
- Proven background in commercial finance, FP&A or business partnering, ideally within a branded consumer goods or spirits environment.
- Experience building management reporting and KPI frameworks from the ground up.
- Hands‑on knowledge of forecasting, budgeting and business planning processes.
- Confidence working across commercial, sales and supply chain teams.
- Advanced Excel skills and working familiarity with AS400, Cognos or similar finance systems.
- A clear understanding of pricing, profitability and commercial performance metrics.
What's in it for you
- Competitive Day Rate.
- One to two days per week, with the flexibility to fit around an existing portfolio or other work commitments.
- Direct exposure to senior commercial stakeholders across finance, sales, supply chain and marketing.
- The scope to build processes and frameworks that outlast the engagement.
A bit more about the business
This is a spirits business with a portfolio spanning premium gin, Scotch whisky and international liqueur brands. The finance team sits at the centre of the commercial operation, working closely with sales and supply chain across both on and off‑trade channels. The business has the foundations in place. This role is about building the commercial intelligence layer on top of them.
Fractional Commercial Finance Lead in Bathgate employer: Denholm Associates
Join a well-established spirits business that values innovation and collaboration, offering a unique fractional engagement for a Commercial Finance Leader. With competitive day rates and the flexibility to work one to two days per week, you'll have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the finance function while enjoying direct access to senior stakeholders. The supportive work culture fosters professional growth, allowing you to build lasting frameworks that enhance commercial intelligence in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fractional Commercial Finance Lead in Bathgate
✨Show Off Your Expertise Online
In the banking and financial services world, sharing your insights on platforms like LinkedIn can really set you apart. Write articles about market trends or finance tips, and engage in discussions in relevant groups. This not only boosts your visibility but also highlights your knowledge to potential clients.
✨Join Freelance Platforms and Networking Events
Freelancing in finance can be competitive, so make sure you're on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, specifically targeting finance gigs. Also, look for finance networking events or webinars to connect with small businesses that might need your services. Meeting people face-to-face (or online) can score you those elusive freelance contracts.
✨Build a Stunning Portfolio
Since you're going freelance, having a solid portfolio is a must. Showcase your previous work, such as reports or analyses, and consider using case studies to highlight your approach. The more you can demonstrate your skills, the easier it is for clients to trust you with their finances.
✨Direct Outreach is Key
For freelance gigs, don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Identify companies or startups that align with your skills and reach out directly. A personalised message introducing yourself and proposing how you could add value can go a long way. Plus, keep an eye on Denholm Associates for freelance opportunities—they might have just what you’re looking for!
We think you need these skills to ace Fractional Commercial Finance Lead in Bathgate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Financial Savvy:When applying for a freelance role in banking and financial services, we need to see your expertise front and centre! Mention specific financial regulations or tools you've mastered, and feel free to include your relevant qualifications, like CFA or ACCA, to bolster your credibility.
Build a Stellar Portfolio:Since this is a freelance gig, your portfolio is your ticket to impressing us at Denholm Associates. Include examples of past projects you've completed—think financial analyses, investment reports, or forecasting models. Be sure to highlight the results you achieved!
Tailor Your Rates and Availability:We want to see that you're flexible and can align with our needs. Clearly outline your freelance rates, availability for projects, and whether you're open to long-term collaborations or just ad-hoc gigs. This makes it easier for us to understand how we can work together!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your skills, but also why you're excited about joining Denholm Associates. Share your passion for financial services and how you plan to tackle challenges in this sector. This is your chance to connect on a personal level—make it count!
How to prepare for a job interview at Denholm Associates
✨Show Off Your Financial Savvy
When you're talking with Denholm Associates, make sure to highlight your experience with financial modelling, risk assessment, or portfolio management. Freelance work often requires a good level of financial literacy, so prepare to discuss any relevant tools you've used, whether it's Excel or specific financial software.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
A freelance role means you’ll want to showcase your previous work effectively. Put together a portfolio that not only highlights your projects but also demonstrates the outcomes - think case studies or success stories that showcase how your financial skills made a difference for past clients.
✨Know Your Regulations and Compliance
In the banking and financial services world, understanding compliance and regulations is crucial. Make sure you’re up to date with the latest standards as they relate to your expertise. Be prepared for specific questions about how you've navigated these in past roles or how you'd approach potential compliance challenges.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Rates and Availability
As a freelancer, the topic of rates and availability can come up early on. Be clear about what you offer and how you charge. It might also help to have a few examples in mind where your expertise saved someone money or improved efficiency to justify your rates to Denholm Associates.
