At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the finance function while managing a growing team.
- Company: Fast-growing global events business with a strong track record.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, and international travel opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment with genuine progression and regular team socials.
- Why this job: Shape the financial future of a dynamic organisation and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: ACCA/ICAEW qualified with strong experience in finance and leadership.
The predicted salary is between 64000 - 75000 £ per year.
Are you an ACCA/ICAEW qualified finance leader ready to shape the financial future of a fast-growing global events business? This £15m-turnover organisation is expanding rapidly and now requires a commercially minded Head of Finance to lead the accounting function as they approach audit threshold. This is a high-impact role where you’ll combine hands-on financial management with strategic decision-making, supporting the Founder CEO and acting as a key ambassador across international defence events.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead and develop the finance function, including line management of a growing team
- Deliver financial updates to senior stakeholders and external partners
- Oversee month-end, year-end and UK VAT reconciliations
- Manage payroll and ensure full compliance with FRS standards
- Conduct internal audits across income, costs, VAT and bank reconciliations
- Implement new financial systems, policies and software solutions
- Support external audit preparation as the business scales
- Represent the company at domestic and international events
What you’ll need:
- ACCA / ICAEW qualified (CIMA/ACA desirable)
- Strong Xero and Microsoft Office experience
- Proven experience with external audit and internal audit processes
- Ability to lead, coach and develop a finance team
- Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, commercial mindset
- Resilient, adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment
- Interest in defence, maritime or armed forces sectors is a bonus
Why join?
- Competitive salary
- 28 days holiday + two additional weeks off every December
- Regular team socials and international travel opportunities
- Professional, supportive environment with genuine progression
- A business with a strong track record of promoting from within
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5:00pm (Office-based)
If you’re a driven finance professional looking to step into a strategic leadership role within a growing global organisation, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now.
Head of Finance in Essex employer: First City Recruitment Ltd
Join a respected and growing firm in Chelmsford that values exceptional client care and offers a supportive work environment. With competitive salaries, ongoing professional development, and a range of benefits including health care and generous holiday allowances, this is an excellent opportunity for a Private Client Solicitor looking to thrive in their career while enjoying a collaborative team culture. The firm also promotes work-life balance with flexible working arrangements and engaging team events.
Contact Details:
First City Recruitment Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Essex
✨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 First City Recruitment Ltd. 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 in Essex
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 First City Recruitment Ltd.
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 First City Recruitment Ltd'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 First City Recruitment Ltd
✨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 First City Recruitment Ltd.
✨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 First City Recruitment Ltd 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 First City Recruitment Ltd 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.
