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- Tasks: Lead commercial finance across business units and influence key decisions.
- Company: Join a respected, PE-backed Clinical Research Organisation with international growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary of £120,000 plus benefits and hybrid working.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced environment that values strategic growth and leadership.
- Qualifications: Must be ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with significant experience in finance.
- Other info: Experience in a CRO and private equity is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 84000 - 168000 £ per year.
Job Description
Clinical Research Organisation | PE-Backed | International Growth Business\\n c. £120,000 + Benefits\\n London (Hybrid – 2 Days in Office)\\n Reference: 10090\\n\\nThe Company\\n Our client is a well-respected, PE-backed Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) with its head office based in London. They provide professional services to the pharmaceutical industry delivering high quality statistics and programming for clinical trials.
Experiencing dramatic growth over recent years, they have developed an outstanding reputation in the international market.\\n\\nThe Role\\n Reporting directly to the CFO, this is a key appointment providing commercial finance leadership across a portfolio of business units and working closely with operational leaders and the executive team to shape commercial outcomes. You will act as a true business partner owning financial performance, influencing key decisions, and ensuring finance is embedded into every aspect of operational and commercial strategy. This role is suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment and is passionate about using finance to unlock value and drive strategic growth.\\n\\nBeyond the numbers, you will lead and develop a small, high-performing team, nurturing talent and setting a strong example of leadership, integrity, and accountability.
You will be a sounding board to the CFO and wider Executive, providing clear, commercially grounded financial advice and contributing to long-term planning and investment decisions.\\n\\nThe Person\\n ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with significant post-qualified experience, you will possess excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and challenge senior leaders in a constructive and commercially credible way. Strong communication, financial modelling, and data analysis capabilities are essential. Prior experience working within a CRO (Clinical Research Organisation) is essential to bring relevant sector knowledge to the role.
A background in private equity environments and experience of M&A activity would be a distinct advantage.\\n\\nHow to Apply\\n To apply in confidence, please submit a fully detailed CV online, including your current remuneration package and quoting job reference 10090
Head of Commercial Finance employer: Lord Search & Selection
Contact Detail:
Lord Search & Selection Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Commercial Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) sector. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with key players and gain insights into the latest trends, which can help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial challenges faced by CROs, especially in a private equity context. This knowledge will enable you to speak confidently about how you can add value and drive strategic growth in your discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your leadership style and how you've successfully developed high-performing teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your ability to nurture talent and foster a culture of accountability.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company's recent projects and achievements in the CRO space. Being able to reference these during your conversations will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation, making you a more compelling candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Commercial Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Head of Commercial Finance role. Highlight your ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualifications and relevant experience in a Clinical Research Organisation. Emphasise your stakeholder management skills and any experience in private equity or M&A activities.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for finance and how it can drive strategic growth. Discuss your leadership style and how you have developed high-performing teams in the past. Mention your ability to influence senior leaders and provide commercially grounded financial advice.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, be sure to highlight your significant post-qualified experience and any specific achievements in previous roles that demonstrate your capability to thrive in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment.
Include Current Remuneration: As requested in the job description, include your current remuneration package in your application. This shows transparency and helps the employer understand your expectations.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lord Search & Selection
✨Understand the Company and Industry
Before your interview, make sure to research the Clinical Research Organisation sector thoroughly. Understand the company's position in the market, their recent growth, and how they differentiate themselves from competitors. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and ability to contribute to their success.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a candidate for the Head of Commercial Finance role, it's crucial to highlight your financial modelling and data analysis skills. Prepare examples of how you've used these skills to influence business decisions or drive strategic growth in previous roles, especially in a fast-paced environment.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
Since this role involves leading a high-performing team, be ready to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share specific instances where you've nurtured talent, set a strong example, and influenced senior leaders positively. This will show that you can not only manage finances but also inspire and develop your team.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Questions
Expect questions about your experience in stakeholder management, particularly in challenging situations. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated financial insights to non-financial stakeholders and influenced key decisions. This will showcase your ability to act as a true business partner within the organisation.
