At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a global freight forwarding company.
- Company: Join a leading shipping and logistics firm based in Felixstowe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, pension, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Dynamic role with international travel opportunities and strong career growth.
- Why this job: Shape the financial future of a growing global operator from a key UK port.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in senior finance roles, ideally in logistics or shipping.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 160000 £ per year.
- Location: Felixstowe, Suffolk, UK - On-site with occasional travel to global offices
- Reports to: CEO / Group Board
- Department: Finance About the Company
Our client are a global shipping and freight forwarding company with operations across sea, air, and road.
Based in the UKs largest container port, Felixstowe, they manage end-to-end logistics for clients worldwide.
Role Purpose
The CFO will own the financial strategy, governance, and performance of the group.
Youll partner with the CEO and global leadership to drive profitability, manage risk, and ensure robust financial controls across multiple entities, currencies, and jurisdictions.
This is a hands-on, strategic role for someone who understands logistics margins, working capital, and port-based operations.
Key Responsibilities 1.
- Strategic Finance & Leadership
- Develop and execute financial strategy aligned to global growth plans
- Board reporting, investor relations, and M&A due diligence support
- Lead budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning for all entities
- Drive commercial insight: lane profitability, customer P&L, contract pricing 2. Operations & Commercial Finance
- Oversee finance for freight forwarding: ocean/air/road margins, agent commissions, demurrage & detention
- Manage working capital: AR/AP, credit control, and cash conversion in a high-volume, low-margin business
- Partner with Operations, Sales, and Customs teams on pricing, cost recovery, and contract negotiations
- Optimize use of port fees, warehousing, and 3PL costs 3. Governance, Risk & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with UK GAAP/IFRS, HMRC customs/bond requirements, and global tax/VAT rules
- Lead audit, treasury, and insurance programs including marine cargo and liability cover
- Manage FX exposure across USD, EUR, GBP and other trading currencies
- Oversee AML, sanctions screening, and trade compliance controls 4. Team & Systems
- Lead a finance team of X people across UK + global hubs
- Own the ERP/TMS/WMS finance integration. Drive automation and MI dashboards
- Implement strong controls across multiple legal entities and currencies Key Requirements Experience
- ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified or equivalent
- 8+ years senior finance experience, with 3+ years at CFO/Finance Director level
- Proven experience in shipping, freight forwarding, logistics, or port operations essential
- Experience managing multi-entity, multi-currency group structures
- Track record of driving margin improvement and cash management in asset-light logistics Skills
- Deep understanding of Incoterms, freight rates, customs duties, and bonded warehousing
- Strong commercial acumen and ability to translate ops data into financial decisions
- Excellent communicator to board, banks, and non-finance stakeholders
- Advanced Excel + ERP experience. Experience with Cargo Wise, AEB, or similar TMS a plus Personal Attributes
- Resilient, pragmatic, and hands-on. Felixstowe is an operational port environment
- Strategic thinker with strong governance mindset
- Able to travel internationally 10-15% What's on offer
- Competitive salary: £120k - £160k + bonus + benefits
- Pension, private healthcare, and port location allowance
- Opportunity to shape finance for a growing global operator from a key UK port
- Relocation support considered
- TPBN1_UKTJ
Chief Financial Officer employer: Headford Group
Join a dynamic logistics business that values its employees and fosters a collaborative work culture. With competitive salaries and opportunities for professional growth, you will play a crucial role in managing transport operations across the UK and Europe, all while being part of a supportive team that prioritises compliance and efficiency. This is an excellent opportunity for those seeking meaningful employment in a thriving sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer
✨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 Headford Group. 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 Chief Financial Officer
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 Headford Group.
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 Headford Group'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 Headford Group
✨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 Headford Group.
✨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 Headford Group 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 Headford Group 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.
