At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a finance operations team through a period of transition and change.
- Company: High-growth professional services organisation with exciting opportunities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential for long-term role, and dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence processes and work closely with an experienced Finance Director.
- Why this job: Make a real impact during a critical transition in a fast-paced business.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong finance operations experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 75000 € per year.
Location: Bristol (minimum 2 days a week required on site, preferably 3 and 2 days from home)
Duration: June 2026 - December 2026 (initially)
Salary: £70,000 - £75,000 (salary equivalent / day rate equivalent)
The Opportunity
We are working in partnership with a high-growth professional services organisation to appoint an Interim Head of Finance Operations. This role will provide leadership and stability during a period of transition, covering for a planned retirement and supporting the business through an ongoing finance restructure. This is a six-month assignment initially, with the potential to move into a longer-term or permanent position as the business continues to evolve.
The Role
Reporting to the Finance Director, you will take responsibility for overseeing the finance operations function, managing a team of 12, and ensuring continuity and efficiency across all processes during a period of change. Key responsibilities will include:
- Leading and managing a finance operations team of 12 (CC, AR, AP)
- Maintaining and improving day-to-day finance operations
- Ensuring robust financial controls, processes, and reporting frameworks are in place
- Supporting the Finance Director through an active restructuring programme
- Identifying and implementing process improvements to support scalability
- Building strong relationships across the finance function and wider business
- Providing leadership and direction to ensure team cohesion and engagement
The Business
The organisation has experienced significant growth, with approximately 30% year-on-year expansion driven by recent and planned M&A activity. This has created both opportunity and complexity within the finance function, and the business is now entering the next phase of its development. This role will be critical in supporting that transition and ensuring the finance operations function is aligned to future growth.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with strong finance operations experience and a proven track record of delivering in fast-paced, evolving environments. The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Experience in a senior finance operations or controllership role
- Strong exposure to change, transformation or restructuring environments
- The ability to lead teams through periods of change and uncertainty
- A hands-on, pragmatic approach with attention to detail
- Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong internal relationships
- A collaborative and adaptable style, with a cultural fit being key
This is an excellent opportunity to take on a high-impact interim assignment within a growing and acquisitive business. There is scope to influence both process and structure, while working closely with an experienced Finance Director.
Interim Head of Finance Operations in Bristol employer: Hays
Join a dynamic and high-growth professional services organisation in Bristol as the Interim Head of Finance Operations, where you will play a pivotal role in leading a team through a transformative period. With a strong emphasis on employee development and a collaborative work culture, this position offers not only competitive remuneration but also the chance to influence key financial processes and structures. Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid working while contributing to a company that values innovation and growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Finance Operations in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent changes. Understand their growth story and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in times of transition.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams through change. Highlight your hands-on approach and how you’ve improved processes in previous roles.
✨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 about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Finance Operations in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Interim Head of Finance Operations role. Highlight your experience in finance operations, especially in change and restructuring environments. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
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 role. Share specific examples of how you've led teams through change and improved processes in previous positions. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves managing a team of 12, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Talk about how you've built strong relationships and engaged your team during transitions. We’re all about collaboration here at StudySmarter!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of everything. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Interim Head of Finance Operations, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've improved financial operations in previous roles. This shows you’re not just a leader but also someone who understands the nitty-gritty.
✨Showcase Change Management Skills
Given the role involves overseeing a restructuring programme, prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change. Be specific about the challenges faced and the strategies you employed to ensure smooth transitions. This will highlight your adaptability and leadership.
✨Build Rapport with the Interviewers
Interpersonal skills are crucial for this position. During the interview, engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about their current finance operations and challenges. This not only shows your interest but also helps you build a connection, making you a memorable candidate.
✨Demonstrate a Hands-On Approach
The job requires a pragmatic approach, so be prepared to discuss how you’ve rolled up your sleeves in past roles. Share specific instances where your attention to detail made a difference in finance operations. This will reinforce your suitability for a hands-on leadership role.
