At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance strategy, manage cash flow, and drive performance across teams.
- Company: Join Derek Rose, a brand that values clarity and quality in everything we do.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension contributions, 25 days leave, and generous staff discounts.
- Other info: Hybrid working, social events, and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance in a dynamic environment with real impact.
- Qualifications: ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified with 5+ years in a commercial setting.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced, strategic and commercially minded Head of Finance to join Derek Rose and take full ownership of our finance function. This is a senior leadership role with direct access to the CEO and a seat at the table in shaping the future of the business. You will play a central role in guiding strategic decisions, strengthening operational performance, and ensuring the business is well positioned for sustainable growth.
At Derek Rose, we design for how people live their free time. That same philosophy applies internally — we value clarity, quality, and thoughtful execution in everything we do. This role is no exception.
You will lead all aspects of finance, combining strategic thinking with hands-on execution. This is a role for someone who is equally comfortable presenting at board level and getting into the detail when needed. You will be responsible for ensuring the finance function is robust, efficient, and future-ready, with a particular focus on improving systems, processes, and insight.
Key Responsibilities- Act as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to overall business strategy
- Partner closely with Sales, Direct-to-Consumer, and Operations teams to drive performance
- Lead the annual budgeting process and ongoing reforecasting
- Develop mid- and long-term financial plans to support growth
- Monitor performance against budget and provide clear, actionable insight
- Present financial performance and key insights at SLT meetings
- Review and evolve finance systems and team structure to support the next phase of growth
- Identify and implement opportunities for automation and AI within the finance function
- Take full ownership of cash flow management and forecasting
- Oversee credit control, working closely with credit insurers
- Manage the annual audit process from start to completion
- Ensure timely and accurate production of management accounts and year-end accounts
- Oversee VAT returns, payroll, and pension scheme administration
- Manage sales agent commission calculations
- Lead and develop a team of 8 across accounts, wholesale operations, export, and ERP support
- Foster a culture of accountability, curiosity, and continuous improvement
- Ensure the finance team is structured and equipped to scale with the business
- Manage relationships with banks, landlords, and credit insurers
- Negotiate contracts for utilities and key support services
- Support wider business functions including HR and HSE where required
- Oversee external partners such as trademark agents and payroll providers
We are looking for someone who combines technical excellence with strong commercial instinct and a pragmatic, hands-on approach. You will likely have:
- ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification
- At least 5 years’ post-qualification experience in a commercial environment (ideally an SME)
- Strong experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management (including FX exposure)
- Experience working with ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics Business Central
- Advanced Excel capability
- Experience with import/export processes
You will be:
- A strategic thinker who can translate numbers into clear business insight
- Comfortable operating at both a high level and in the detail
- A strong communicator, able to engage confidently across all levels of the business
- Naturally curious, with a drive to improve systems and processes
- A proven team leader who develops and supports those around them
- Pragmatic, solutions-focused, and commercially aware
What We Offer
- Pension contribution
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous staff discount and regular sample sales
- Confidential wellbeing and mental health support
- Social events
- Hybrid working (following probation)
- Dedicated parking space
Head of Finance in Congleton employer: Derek Rose
Contact Detail:
Derek Rose Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Congleton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around budgeting and forecasting. Show them you’re not just a numbers person, but a strategic thinker!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! As a Head of Finance, you'll need to communicate complex financial insights clearly. Grab a friend or use a mirror to rehearse how you'd present your ideas to the board.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Congleton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Finance role. Highlight your strategic thinking, financial control, and leadership experience to show us you're the perfect fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about finance and how your background makes you the ideal candidate for this position. Don't forget to mention your experience with budgeting and forecasting!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your impact. Whether it's improving cash flow management or leading a successful audit, we want to see how you've made a difference in previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you're keen to join our team at Derek Rose!
How to prepare for a job interview at Derek Rose
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive business decisions in the past. This shows you can translate numbers into actionable insights.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've contributed to strategic planning in previous roles. Think about times when your financial insights led to significant business improvements or growth. This will highlight your ability to operate at both a high level and in the detail.
✨Engage with the Team Dynamics
Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Share specific instances where you’ve fostered a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within your team. This will show that you’re not just a numbers person but also a people person.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Research Derek Rose and its market position. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their growth. Showing that you understand their business philosophy will set you apart from other candidates.