At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape financial strategy and lead growth across global markets.
- Company: World-leading designer of advanced scientific instruments with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Share options, matched pension up to 7.5%, and a rewarding annual bonus.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for broader operational exposure and career growth.
- Why this job: Drive impactful decisions alongside the MD and influence key business functions.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance experience and confidence in international operations.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 75000 £ per year.
You'll shape the financial strategy of a business on a clear path to doubling in size, increasing your impact and future leadership prospects. With international expansion already underway, you'll guide the next phase of growth across global markets while strengthening your expertise in multi-entity finance and strategic planning. This is a chance to work closely with the MD, where your insights won't just inform decisions - they'll drive them. You'll also get access to share options, a matched pension up to 7.5% and a healthy annual bonus that rewards your long-term contribution. On top of that, you'll have the freedom to oversee and improve key business functions beyond finance - HR, IT and facilities - giving you broader operational exposure and more influence on how the business runs day-to-day.
What you'll do
- You will be investigating, summarising, reporting on, and making recommendations on how to improve what they are doing.
- You will be leading the finance team and providing a high-quality service to all stakeholders.
- You’ll work side-by-side with the MD, coaching P&L managers and supporting decisions that shape the company’s future.
- Take ownership of financial management across international entities, with opportunities to lead new market entries and support expansion.
- You’ll also oversee shared services, making sure HR, IT and facilities enable, not hold back, performance.
- With recent acquisitions in play, you’ll lead financial integration and help drive a smooth, high-impact growth journey.
What you'll need
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with senior finance experience in an SME or complex division.
- Confidence in international operations and multi-entity structures.
- Pragmatic and hands-on approach, able to challenge the MD constructively and hold your position under pressure.
- Ideally based within commuting distance of Northampton, with four days per week in the office.
About the company
They’re a world-leading designer and manufacturer of advanced scientific instruments. Their technology supports critical decision-making across energy, mining, academia, and government - playing an increasingly important role in the global energy transition.
Finance Director in Northampton employer: H Squared Talent
As a Finance Director at our world-leading scientific instruments company, you'll be part of a dynamic team driving international growth and innovation. We offer a collaborative work culture that values your insights and contributions, alongside competitive benefits such as share options, a matched pension scheme, and performance-based bonuses. With opportunities for professional development and the chance to influence key business functions beyond finance, this role is perfect for those looking to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly expanding organisation based near Northampton.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director in Northampton
✨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 H Squared Talent. 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 Finance Director in Northampton
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 H Squared Talent.
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 H Squared Talent'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 H Squared Talent
✨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 H Squared Talent.
✨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 H Squared Talent 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 H Squared Talent 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.
