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- Tasks: Lead financial operations and strategies for a dynamic organisation.
- Company: Join a supportive and innovative team in the agriculture sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow into broader executive roles.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial leadership and strategy.
- Qualifications: 7-10 years of finance experience, with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid (2 days per week in-office, Brighton, IL)
Position Overview
The Senior Director of Finance will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for overseeing all financial operations including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and team leadership. This role requires a balance of strategic financial oversight and hands-on accounting management, ensuring compliance, operational efficiency, and strong fiscal health. The ideal candidate will bring proven experience managing complex cash flow environments—particularly those involving seasonal or cyclical revenue streams—and a background in agriculture, agribusiness, or service-oriented organizations.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Leadership: Provide strategic direction and oversight for financial planning and management. Develop and execute financial strategies aligned with business goals and long-term growth objectives.
- Accounting & Reporting: Oversee all accounting functions, including accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and general ledger. Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with GAAP and regulatory standards.
- Budgeting & Forecasting: Lead annual budgeting and ongoing forecasting processes. Deliver financial insights and recommendations to guide executive decision-making.
- Cash Flow Management: Monitor liquidity and cash flow, ensuring financial stability through cyclical revenue periods. Develop and maintain relationships with banking and financial partners to support funding and credit needs.
- Risk & Compliance: Identify and mitigate financial and operational risks. Establish and maintain sound internal controls and compliance with all financial regulations.
- Team Leadership: Manage and mentor a small, high-performing finance and accounting team. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Present financial results and strategies to executive leadership and the board. Serve as a strategic partner to the CEO, COO, and cross-functional department leaders.
Qualifications & Competencies
- Experience: 7–10 years of progressive financial leadership, with at least 3 years in a Controller or senior finance role. Experience in agriculture, financial services, or service-based organizations preferred. Demonstrated success managing delayed or seasonal cash flow cycles.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field required. MBA or CPA designation preferred.
- Skills & Attributes: Deep understanding of financial reporting, forecasting, and risk management. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with sound business judgment. Exceptional communication skills, able to simplify complex financial data for diverse stakeholders. Hands-on leader who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. High ethical standards and commitment to confidentiality.
Additional Information
- Hybrid work environment: approximately two days per week in-office.
- Occasional travel to meetings, key clients, and board sessions.
- Opportunity for growth into a broader executive financial leadership role over time.
If you’re looking to join a supportive and innovative team culture, we’d love to hear from you!
Senior Director of Finance employer: Illinois Ag
Contact Detail:
Illinois Ag Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Director of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in agriculture or service-based organisations. A personal recommendation can make all the difference when you're aiming for that Senior Director of Finance role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial strategies and compliance knowledge. Be ready to discuss how you've managed cash flow in cyclical environments. We want you to showcase your expertise and how it aligns with the company's goals!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the position. It shows professionalism and keeps you top of mind for the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for more opportunities and resources. Applying through us not only gives you access to exclusive roles but also connects you with a supportive community that can help you land that dream job in finance!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Director of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Director of Finance role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial leadership, especially in agriculture or service-based organisations, to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your accomplishments! Use specific examples that demonstrate your success in managing cash flow cycles and leading finance teams. Numbers speak volumes, so include metrics where possible.
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging: While we love a friendly tone, remember to maintain professionalism in your application. Use clear language and avoid jargon, but don’t shy away from letting your personality shine through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Illinois Ag
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Director of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the company and be ready to discuss how you've managed cash flow in previous roles, especially in cyclical environments.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a finance team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully managed and mentored teams in the past. Highlight your approach to fostering collaboration and accountability within your team.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about aligning financial strategies with business goals. Think about how you’ve developed and executed financial plans that supported long-term growth objectives, and be ready to discuss these strategies in detail.
✨Communicate Clearly
You’ll need to present complex financial data to diverse stakeholders. Practice simplifying financial concepts and be ready to explain how you’ve effectively communicated insights to executive leadership and boards in the past.