At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations and support strategic growth initiatives in a dynamic tech environment.
- Company: Join a leading software group known for innovation and international expansion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a vibrant office culture.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and drive business success.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on financial strategy and team performance in a fast-paced setting.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified ACA/ACCA/CIMA with strong leadership and technical accounting skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Location: South London (100% office based)
Our client is a leading software group with a growing international presence and a strong reputation for innovation within the technology sector. Due to continued growth, they are seeking a commercially focused Head of Finance to lead the finance function from their South London office, working closely with the CFO and senior leadership team to support the next phase of expansion.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the preparation of monthly management accounts, board packs, and financial reporting
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning processes
- Manage month-end and year-end close activities, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery
- Take ownership of cash flow management, financial controls, and balance sheet integrity
- Partner with senior stakeholders across the business to provide commercial insight and support strategic decision making
- Lead and develop the finance team, driving high performance and continuous improvement
- Support business growth initiatives, including process optimisation, systems improvements, and finance projects
- Oversee statutory reporting, audit processes, and compliance requirements
- Provide analysis and reporting on business performance, KPIs, and profitability
- Work closely with the CFO on strategic finance initiatives and operational improvements
Candidate Requirements:
- Fully qualified ACA / ACCA / CIMA
- Proven experience in a Head of Finance, Financial Controller, or senior finance leadership role
- Strong technical accounting knowledge and commercial finance experience
- Experience operating within a fast-paced, high-growth commercial environment
- Strong understanding of financial reporting, controls, and business partnering
- Previous experience managing and developing finance teams
- Advanced Excel skills and strong familiarity with finance systems / ERP platforms
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Proactive, hands-on, and capable of operating both strategically and operationally
- Experience within the technology or software sector would be advantageous
Head of Finance employer: Handpicked Recruitment
As a leading software group based in South London, our client offers an exceptional work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Employees benefit from a strong focus on professional development, with opportunities to lead and grow within a dynamic finance team while contributing to the company's exciting expansion plans. The culture is one of support and high performance, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the technology sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨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 Handpicked Recruitment. 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
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 Handpicked Recruitment.
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 Handpicked Recruitment'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 Handpicked Recruitment
✨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 Handpicked Recruitment.
✨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 Handpicked Recruitment 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 Handpicked Recruitment 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.
