At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance team and oversee financial operations during company expansion.
- Company: Join a dynamic Media & Events company based in Central London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative culture with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Experience in the media or events industry is a plus!
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting phase of growth and make a real impact on the company's future.
- Qualifications: Must be ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified with substantial finance leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Harper May is working with an independent, founder‑led restaurant operator managing a diverse portfolio across London and the South East. The business has expanded steadily over the past five years through a combination of organic growth and selective acquisitions, with a reputation for strong operational discipline and customer loyalty. Recent investment has enabled accelerated site development and a significant uplift in back‑office capability. The operator is now seeking a Finance Director to lead financial strategy, embed commercial rigour across the estate, and support the next phase of expansion.
The RoleReporting to the Managing Director, you will head the finance function and serve as a strategic commercial partner to the leadership team. You will combine forward‑looking financial planning with hands‑on oversight of performance, working closely with operations to drive profitability and support capital deployment across new and existing venues.
- Develop and own financial strategy aligned to growth targets and shareholder returns
- Build robust monthly and annual budgeting and forecasting processes across all sites
- Work directly with operations leadership on unit economics, labour productivity, and cost management
- Lead capital planning and investor relations, including securing and managing external funding
- Oversee site‑level P&L reporting, pricing analysis, and margin optimisation
- Ensure strong financial controls, audit readiness, and compliance with statutory obligations
- Recruit, develop, and mentor a growing finance team to support scaling
- ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with demonstrable senior finance leadership experience
- Track record in hospitality, food and beverage, or multi‑unit retail environments
- Commercial acumen with genuine interest in operations and unit‑level performance
- Comfort working hands‑on in a fast‑moving, growth‑focused business
- Experience leading financial transformation, new site launches, or systems integration
- Clear communicator able to distil complexity and influence at board level
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the media and events industry. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the company culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the company's recent projects and financial performance. Understanding their current position and future goals will help you tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed finance teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven operational improvements and fostered a culture of compliance and integrity.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest financial technologies and systems relevant to the media and events sector. Highlighting your adaptability and knowledge of these tools can set you apart as a candidate who is ready to support the company's scaling efforts.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your finance leadership experience, particularly in the media or events industry. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to drive strategic financial planning and operational performance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your qualifications align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description, and provide examples of how you've led finance teams and improved operational efficiency.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Clearly state your ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualifications in your application. Emphasise any additional certifications or training that showcase your commitment to financial integrity and compliance.
Showcase Leadership Skills:Demonstrate your leadership abilities by providing examples of how you've developed finance teams and collaborated with executive leadership on strategic initiatives. This will help illustrate your capability to influence across departments.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harper May Ltd
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Finance Director, you'll be expected to lead a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to inspire and develop others.
✨Demonstrate Industry Knowledge
Having experience in the media or events industry is a plus. Research the company and its competitors, and be ready to discuss industry trends and challenges. This will show your genuine interest in the role and your understanding of the sector.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that assess your technical knowledge and ability to interpret financial data. Brush up on key financial concepts, reporting standards, and compliance regulations. Being able to translate complex financial information into actionable insights will be crucial.
✨Emphasise Process Improvement Experience
The role involves identifying efficiency improvements and implementing new systems. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven operational improvements in previous roles. Discuss the impact these changes had on the organisation's performance.
