At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, mentor a team, and implement robust financial processes.
- Company: Exciting biotech start-up in Oxfordshire with strong growth potential.
- Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package and opportunity for professional development.
- Other info: Be part of an innovative company backed by Oxford University.
- Why this job: Join at a pivotal moment and make a real impact in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong technical knowledge and team management experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A biotechnology business in Oxfordshire seeks a qualified accountant to join them as Head of Finance. Our client is a pre-revenue biotech who has just secured a successful series A raise. They are seeking an ambitious and technically excellent Head of Finance to serve as the CFO's operational "co-pilot" during a transformative period for the business.
This is a rare opportunity to join at an inflection point where you'll have genuine ownership over building, professionalising, and scaling the finance function, while working in a fast-paced, science-driven environment that values pragmatism and growth alongside financial rigour.
As Head of Finance, you will directly manage and develop a Management Accountant, mentoring a high-performing, efficient finance team in line with the company's growth. All financial operations and controls will come under your responsibility, assuming day-to-day ownership of core financial reporting, management accounts, and statutory obligations.
You will review, redesign, and implement robust financial processes appropriate for scale and growth and build and maintain strong financial controls that support that growth. Leading month-end and year-end close processes with accuracy and efficiency and ensuring compliance with UK FRS9, tax regulations, and statutory requirements, and annual audit processes are part of your role along with systems and infrastructure, including working with the CFO to lead or support ERP evaluation and implementation beyond current systems.
You will design and deliver clear, insightful reporting for functional leadership teams, partner with scientists and operational leaders to build financial literacy and embed good financial discipline across the organisation and build trust and credibility as a responsive business partner.
You will support corporate strategy by building and owning group consolidation processes and work with external accountants and advisors on group accounting, structuring, and technical matters. Supporting the CFO in corporate transactions from a due diligence, financial operations and integration perspective will also form part of your role.
Strong technical accounting knowledge with the ability to navigate complex technical matters confidently is required, along with experience implementing or improving financial systems, processes, and controls in a scale-up / growth environment. You will have demonstrable experience managing and developing junior team members, and reporting out to non-finance stakeholders across the business and UK tax knowledge and experience working with tax advisors ideally within life sciences, biotech, or R&D-intensive businesses.
As an effective collaborator in a multidisciplinary environment, building relationships, and gaining trust through honesty, compassion, and authenticity, you will also have a curious and courageous mindset - someone who enjoys trying new things and taking initiative in a fast-paced environment.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-funded, Oxford University spin out with a comprehensive benefits package as it embarks on its growth journey.
Finance Manager, Financial Accounting (part time) in Abingdon employer: Hays
Contact Detail:
Hays Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager, Financial Accounting (part time) in Abingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and biotech sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company thoroughly. Understand their financial operations and recent developments, especially since they’ve just secured funding. Tailor your questions to show your interest and how you can contribute to their growth journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your technical skills during interviews. Be ready to discuss your experience with financial systems and controls, especially in a scale-up environment. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've navigated complex accounting matters in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. Let’s get you that Head of Finance role!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager, Financial Accounting (part time) in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Finance. Highlight your experience in financial operations, team management, and any relevant biotech or life sciences background. We want to see how you can be our operational 'co-pilot'!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this opportunity and how your skills align with our needs. Show us your enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced, science-driven environment.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since we're looking for someone with strong technical accounting knowledge, make sure to mention your experience with UK FRS9, tax regulations, and any systems you've implemented. We love candidates who can navigate complex matters confidently!
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. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your technical accounting knowledge. Brush up on UK FRS9 and tax regulations before the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex financial matters in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing and developing a team. Prepare examples of how you've mentored junior team members or led a finance function through a transformative period. Highlight your ability to build trust and credibility with non-finance stakeholders.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment. Think about past experiences where you’ve redesigned financial processes or implemented new systems. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Understand the Business Context
Research the biotech industry and the specific challenges faced by pre-revenue companies. Be prepared to discuss how you can support corporate strategy and contribute to the company's growth journey. Showing genuine interest in their mission will set you apart.