At a Glance
- Tasks: Build and lead the finance function in a fast-growing fintech lender.
- Company: Dynamic London-based fintech helping SMEs access funding.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity package, and hybrid working.
- Other info: Great opportunity for first-time Head of Finance with ownership mindset.
- Why this job: Shape financial strategy and make a real impact in a scaling business.
- Qualifications: ACCA, CIMA or equivalent; experience in lending finance required.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 110000 € per year.
Location: London, hybrid
Salary: £100,000–£110,000, with flexibility for an exceptional profile
We are working with a fast-growing London-based fintech lender in the SME working capital space. The business helps SMEs access funding to manage cash flow and pay suppliers, has supported over £100m in funding to UK businesses, and has scaled its loan book significantly over the last year.
They are now looking for a Head of Finance to become the first true senior finance hire in the business. This is a hands-on, high-ownership role where you will build the finance function from the ground up, take control of day-to-day finance operations, and partner closely with leadership on financial strategy, reporting, modelling, fundraising and growth. This is not a role where you inherit a large existing team. It is best suited to someone who enjoys autonomy, wants to build, and is comfortable being both strategic and hands-on.
Key responsibilities:
- Build and implement the finance and accounting infrastructure, including systems, processes, controls and policies.
- Own financial reporting across monthly, quarterly and annual cycles.
- Lead the annual audit process with external auditors.
- Develop financial models, budgets and forecasts to support strategic decision-making.
- Oversee cash flow, working capital and liquidity planning.
- Manage financial reporting in relation to the lending book.
- Support leadership with investor reporting, due diligence and fundraising activity.
- Provide insight and recommendations around financial strategy, cost optimisation and growth.
- Support capital markets and debt facility activity.
- Work closely with senior leadership and wider teams to bring clear financial insight into business decisions.
What we are looking for:
- ACCA, CIMA or equivalent accounting qualification.
- Experience working within the finance function of a lending business.
- Strong understanding of lending financial concepts.
- Advanced financial modelling, budgeting and forecasting experience.
- Strong financial reporting experience, including knowledge of UK accounting standards and tax regulations.
- Commercial mindset, with the ability to communicate financial insight clearly to non-finance stakeholders.
- Comfortable working in a small, fast-moving team and taking ownership.
- Self-starter mentality, with the appetite to build a finance function rather than simply inherit one.
Nice to have:
- Exposure to debt facilities, capital markets or fundraising.
- Experience in fintech lending, SME lending, consumer lending, non-bank lending or specialist credit.
- Background in audit, consulting, investment banking, private equity or a high-performance start-up environment.
This is a strong opportunity for someone who may be ready to step into their first Head of Finance role. You do not need to already hold the title, but you do need the technical toolkit, commercial judgement and ownership mindset to build and lead finance in a scaling lending business.
The company offers a competitive salary and equity package, hybrid working from its London office, and the opportunity to shape the finance function of a fast-growing fintech lender.
Head of Finance in London employer: Intellect Group
Join a dynamic and fast-growing fintech lender in London, where you will have the unique opportunity to build the finance function from the ground up. With a competitive salary, equity package, and a hybrid working model, this role offers not only autonomy and ownership but also a collaborative work culture that values innovation and strategic thinking. As the first senior finance hire, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of a company dedicated to supporting SMEs with their funding needs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance and fintech space. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues or mentors on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Showcase Your Skills
When you land an interview, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience and strategic thinking. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've built finance functions or improved processes. This is your chance to shine!
✨Ask Insightful Questions
During interviews, ask questions that show you understand the business and its challenges. Inquire about their current financial strategies or how they plan to scale. This not only shows your interest but also positions you as someone who’s ready to contribute from day one.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team and shaping the future of finance together.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Finance role. Highlight your experience in building finance functions and any relevant fintech exposure to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this hands-on role. Share specific examples of how you've taken ownership in previous positions and how you can contribute to our growth.
Showcase Your Financial Acumen:We want to see your understanding of financial reporting, modelling, and strategy. Include details about your qualifications and any relevant projects that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep track of your application and ensures it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Intellect Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to lending businesses, such as cash flow management and liquidity planning. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics in past roles to drive strategic decisions.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
This role requires a blend of hands-on execution and strategic thinking. Prepare examples of how you've built finance functions or improved processes in previous positions. Highlight your ability to partner with leadership and provide financial insights that support business growth.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions around financial modelling, budgeting, and UK accounting standards. Review common financial scenarios and be prepared to walk through your thought process. This will show your depth of knowledge and readiness to tackle the challenges of the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Autonomy
Since this position involves building a finance function from scratch, it’s crucial to convey your self-starter mentality. Share instances where you took ownership of projects or initiatives, especially in fast-paced environments. This will reassure them that you can thrive with minimal supervision.
