Fractional Financial Controller | High-Growth AI Start-Up in London

Fractional Financial Controller | High-Growth AI Start-Up in London

London Freelance Home office (partial)
Harmonic Group Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage finance operations and provide insights to support decision-making in a high-growth AI start-up.
  • Company: Join a cutting-edge, venture-backed tech company with a collaborative culture.
  • Benefits: Competitive day rate, remote work flexibility, and opportunity for professional growth.
  • Other info: Work remotely with occasional travel to London HQ; 6-month contract, 2 days per week.
  • Why this job: Be part of an innovative team driving financial success in a rapidly scaling business.
  • Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in finance roles within growing businesses.

The Client

Harmonic are delighted to be working with a high-growth, venture-backed technology business to find them a Fractional Financial Controller to support over a 6-month engagement (2 days per week). The business operates at the cutting edge of its field, partnering with enterprise and international clients, and is experiencing rapid growth. Despite this, they maintain a lean, collaborative, and fast-paced environment typical of an early-stage scale-up. They are now looking for an experienced finance professional to bring structure, oversight, and commercial insight to their finance operations during a key phase of growth.

The Role

This is a hands-on and varied role, requiring a detail-oriented and proactive individual who can take ownership of the finance function while partnering closely with senior stakeholders. You will be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of day-to-day finance operations, improving processes, and providing clear financial insight to support decision-making. This role would suit someone comfortable operating in a scaling business where processes are still evolving, and who can balance both operational delivery and strategic input.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee and manage the outsourced accounting function
  • Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, including monthly management accounts and board packs
  • Monitor budget vs. actuals, providing variance analysis and commentary
  • Support cashflow forecasting and ongoing tracking of financial performance
  • Maintain robust financial controls and ensure compliance with statutory requirements
  • Partner with senior stakeholders to support financial planning and scenario analysis
  • Provide insight into business performance, highlighting risks and opportunities
  • Support preparation of materials for investors and board reporting
  • Oversee invoicing processes to ensure accuracy and alignment with contractual terms
  • Oversee payroll coordination with external providers
  • Ensure accurate record-keeping across financial and operational documentation
  • Support equity and cap table administration where required
  • Liaise with external advisors (accountants, legal, payroll) to ensure compliance
  • Assist with entity management and international expansion requirements where relevant

Essential Experience

  • Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA)
  • Previous experience in a Financial Controller or similar role within a growing business
  • Strong technical grounding with the ability to oversee end-to-end finance operations
  • Experience working with outsourced finance providers
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, scaling environment

Bonus Experience

  • Prior experience in a technology or SaaS business
  • Exposure to investor reporting and fundraising environments
  • Experience with subscription-based or contract-based revenue models
  • Familiarity with equity or options administration

Day Rate: £450-£550 per day (Outside IR35)

Location: Remote, with occasional travel to London HQ.

Start Date: ASAP

Contract Length: 6 months (2 days per week)

At Harmonic, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and assure you that every candidate will be thoughtfully considered for the roles we represent, without regard to race, religion, gender expression, disability, or sexual orientation.

Fractional Financial Controller | High-Growth AI Start-Up in London employer: Harmonic Group Ltd

Harmonic is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work culture that thrives on innovation and growth. As a Fractional Financial Controller in a high-growth AI start-up, you will enjoy the flexibility of remote work while contributing to a cutting-edge technology business that values your expertise and insights. With opportunities for professional development and a commitment to inclusivity, Harmonic provides a rewarding environment for finance professionals looking to make a meaningful impact.

Harmonic Group Ltd

Contact Details:

Harmonic Group Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Fractional Financial Controller | High-Growth AI Start-Up in London

Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that Fractional Financial Controller gig.

Show Off Your Skills

When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of how you've improved finance operations or provided valuable insights in previous roles. We want to see your impact!

Tailor Your Approach

Every company is different, so make sure you tailor your conversations to fit their needs. Research the high-growth AI start-up and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re the perfect fit!

Apply Through Our Website

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in your job search journey.

We think you need these skills to ace Fractional Financial Controller | High-Growth AI Start-Up in London

Financial Reporting
Variance Analysis
Cashflow Forecasting
Financial Controls
Statutory Compliance
Stakeholder Management
Financial Planning

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Fractional Financial Controller. Highlight your experience in finance operations, especially in fast-paced environments, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications like ACA, ACCA, or CIMA.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this high-growth AI start-up. Share specific examples of how you've improved financial processes or provided insights that drove decision-making in previous roles.

Showcase Your Soft Skills:While technical skills are crucial, don’t underestimate the power of soft skills. Emphasise your ability to collaborate with senior stakeholders and your proactive approach to problem-solving. This will show us you can thrive in a lean, collaborative environment.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!

How to prepare for a job interview at Harmonic Group Ltd

Know Your Numbers

As a Fractional Financial Controller, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in previous roles. This shows you can provide the clear financial insight they’re looking for.

Showcase Your Adaptability

This role is in a fast-paced, scaling environment, so highlight your experience in similar settings. Share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated change and improved processes in previous positions. It’s all about showing you can thrive in a dynamic atmosphere.

Engage with Stakeholders

Since you'll be partnering closely with senior stakeholders, prepare to discuss your approach to collaboration. Think of examples where you’ve effectively communicated financial insights to non-financial colleagues, helping them make informed decisions.

Prepare for Scenario Analysis

Expect questions around financial planning and scenario analysis. Be ready to discuss how you’ve supported cashflow forecasting and provided variance analysis in past roles. This will demonstrate your strategic input and operational delivery capabilities.