Head of Finance in Loanhead

FMS Fire and Security provide consultancy, design, tender, installation, commissioning, training, maintenance and service for single, integrated and multi-discipline electronic fire and security systems. These systems incorporate Fire Detection, Fire Extinguishing Systems, Intruder Alarms, Closed Circuit Television, Access Control, Emergency Lighting and Voice Evacuation Systems, as well as Gates, Barriers, Turnstiles, Cabling and Security Lighting. FMS Fire and Security Ltd are a Quality Assured company certified and audited through UKAS. We hold NSI Gold status for security disciplines and also NSI Gold Fire for the BAFE SP203 scheme.

Role Overview

The Head of Finance role will support the development of the businesses, wider Mecsia Finance Function and a leading commercial financial control environment in a fast-growing PE-backed business. The role is a great canvas for the Head of Finance to make an impact; the company is amongst the best-in-class in its sector, and is growing profitably. The Finance Team uses Sage 50 and a stronger Group Finance Function has been established by new PE backers Synova to support organic and acquisitive growth. It is anticipated that a group-wide ERP roll-out will commence in late 2026/early 2027. We are seeking an individual with a high EQ and ability to execute the implementation of the management and financial accounting and reporting agenda across the Group at pace.

Responsibilities

• Drive Commercial and Operational Performance
  • Following development of existing systems and processes, support the company MD with timely and insightful information on profitability and key metrics by service line, division, customer and location.
  • High quality analysis of monthly P&Ls to support improved commercial decision-making; represent finance in commercial discussions.
  • Work alongside commercial and ops teams to improve commercial analyses.
  • Act as part of the Senior Management Team to maximise performance and deliver improved commercial results.
  • Provide timely, insightful information on potential risk areas for follow-up, such as accrued income, debtors, costs and sales pipeline.
• Budgeting and Forecasting
  • Preparation of detailed, robust draft annual budgets, as well as regular reforecasts and monthly variance commentaries.
  • Own the weekly 18-week cash flow forecasts.
  • Active management of working capital, with a particular focus on prompt invoicing of accrued income and timely collection of debtors.
  • Ensure suppliers are paid on time wherever possible.
  • Prompt upstreaming of surplus cash to Group Management Accounts.
  • Lead the company’s monthly reporting process providing management accounts which are always audit-ready and aligned with the financial standards followed by the Group.
  • Own the month end process from the start through to close of accounts and handover to the Group Finance Team for reporting.
  • Carry out balance sheet review and output, resolving issues picked up in the timetabled reconciliations and managing the risks and opportunities on the balance sheet through the course of the financial year.
  • Ensure regulatory submissions and payments are made (VAT, PAYE, CT).
• Team Management
  • Manage a Team of 3, with one direct report.
  • Support the development of a professional and high performing finance function as the business grows, through coaching and clear communication.
  • Work alongside peers on Group-wide initiatives, such as aligning CoA, maximising cash upstreaming, developing and reporting on insightful KPIs, implementing new business and finance systems, sharing best practice.
• Statutory Accounts
  • Support the Group audit process.
  • Work directly with the external audit team, providing them with high quality information, to ensure the audit is completed on time.
  • Ensure the timely preparation, review and submission of accurate, compliant annual statutory accounts.
• Technical Accounting
  • Strong, up-to-date knowledge of UK GAAP accounting standard.
  • Coach and build skills in-house to reduce need for external advice and support.
• Transactional Finance
  • Oversee and support the accounting team, ensuring their processes fit into the overall control framework and enable a smooth management accounts cycle.
  • Identify efficiencies through automation, use of technology and centralisation of processes to achieve improved reporting timelines and more insightful management reports.

Skills and Experience required

• Excellent analytical skills, able to understand the business and its key drivers, explain complex requirements and processes.
• Results driven with the ability to deliver to tight deadlines in a fast-paced business.
• Recognised accountancy qualification; or part-qualified and on track to qualify although QBE would be considered.
• Excellent understanding of processes and controls to enable robust financial reporting.
• Proven ability to deliver monthly management reporting and analysis.
• 3 or more years’ financial management experience.
• Excellent knowledge of UK GAAP.
• Experience in Facilities Management, construction or similar sector.
• Worked in a finance function, ensuring adherence to Group policies and processes.
• Experience of the implementation of new accounting systems.
• Experience of working in an acquisitive PE backed business.
• Understanding and experience of long term contracts and accounting for WIP.

What we offer

• Salary - 45K plus Bonus (up to 10% of salary).
• Death in Service.
• Supportive and professional working environment.