At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategies for SMEs, providing hands-on support and advisory.
- Company: A progressive accountancy firm with a focus on outsourced finance and advisory.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and a chance to shape your role.
- Other info: Informal culture that values output over presenteeism and offers career growth.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and make a real impact in the finance sector.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with senior management experience in outsourcing.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Your new company: This is a newly created role within a growing, progressive accountancy firm that is investing heavily in its outsourced finance and advisory offering. The firm supports a broad SME client base and operates with an informal, commercially minded culture - grown-ups doing proper work without unnecessary hierarchy. Centrally located offices, modern working practices, and a leadership team that genuinely wants this hire to shape and grow the service, not just inherit it.
Your new role: You'll take a senior position within the outsourced finance function, providing strategic financial leadership to owner-managed businesses and SMEs acting as their Fractional Financial Controller/Director. The role blends hands-on client delivery with higher-level advisory and team leadership. You'll be trusted to work directly with business owners, senior management teams and boards, helping clients make better decisions through clear insight, not jargon.
- Leading outsourced finance relationships for a portfolio of SME clients
- Overseeing management accounts, forecasting, budgeting and financial reporting
- Acting as a trusted advisor, attending regular client meetings to review performance and growth
- Ensuring compliance across statutory reporting, VAT and UK accounting standards
- Identifying financial risks and implementing appropriate controls
- Coaching and developing finance teams (both in-house and outsourced)
- Collaborating with tax, audit and payroll colleagues to provide joined-up advice
What you'll need to succeed: Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent). Experience operating at Senior Manager level (or strong Manager ready to step up) within an outsourcing / business services function. A strong track record advising UK SMEs across a range of sectors. Commercial mindset with the confidence to challenge and influence clients. Proven people leadership experience in a results-driven environment. Clear communication skills - able to explain financial insight without over-complication.
What you'll get in return: Salary circa £60,000-£75,000 depending on experience. A newly created, progressive role with genuine scope to shape your remit. Informal, adult environment - judged on output, not presenteeism. Central Guildford location with flexible working patterns considered. A firm that is growing and investing, not standing still.
What you need to do now: If you'd like a discreet conversation to understand the firm, culture and longer-term opportunity, apply now or get in touch for more details.
Fractional FD in Guildford employer: Hays
This progressive accountancy firm offers an exceptional work environment where employees are valued for their contributions and encouraged to shape their roles. With a focus on supporting SMEs, the firm promotes a culture of collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Located in central Guildford, the company embraces modern working practices and flexible arrangements, making it an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fractional FD in Guildford
✨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 Hays. 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 Fractional FD in Guildford
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 Hays.
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 Hays'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 Hays
✨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 Hays.
✨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 Hays 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 Hays 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.
