At a Glance
- Tasks: Take charge of finance operations and build financial processes from scratch.
- Company: Fast-growing FinTech startup with a focus on B2B payments.
- Benefits: Opportunity to grow into CFO role and shape the finance function.
- Other info: Dynamic role for those who thrive in hands-on environments and enjoy building.
- Why this job: Be a key player in building something impactful and earn the top finance seat.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance experience, ideally in fintech.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are exclusively retained on a confidential search for a Finance Director (Designate) on behalf of a fast-growing, FCA and DFSA-authorised B2B payments business operating across the UK and MENA region.
Please read before applying: this is a hands-on, build-from-scratch finance role with a clear and defined path to CFO. If you are looking for a strategic seat with a team already in place, this is not it. If you are energised by rolling your sleeves up, building the foundations, and earning the top finance seat as the business hits its next major milestone — read on.
The Role
- You will join as Finance Director (Designate) and take hands-on ownership of the finance function from day one.
- Over an initial period of approximately six-eight months, you will build the financial infrastructure the business needs — processes, controls, reporting and systems — ahead of the company's full trading launch.
- At that point, subject to performance, you will step up into the CFO role.
- This is a genuine opportunity to build something from the ground up and grow into the most senior finance position in the business.
- The CFO seat is the destination — this is the path to get there.
What You Will Actually Be Doing
- Hands-on ownership of day-to-day financial operations — from management accounts to reconciliations.
- Building financial processes, controls and reporting frameworks from scratch.
- Managing regulatory capital requirements across FCA (UK) and DFSA (UAE) frameworks.
- Selecting and implementing finance systems and tools suited to a scaling payments business.
- Direct engagement with the CEO and Board on financial performance and strategy.
- Treasury management and FX exposure oversight.
- Supporting commercial decision-making, budgeting and forecasting.
- Preparing the business financially for full trading launch.
- Hiring and developing a finance team as the business scales toward and beyond launch.
You Will Have
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- Proven experience in a senior finance role — ideally within a regulated fintech, payments or e-money business.
- Comfortable being the only finance person in the room initially — no team to delegate to from day one.
- Strong understanding of FCA regulatory capital and reporting requirements — DFSA experience a distinct advantage.
- Experience in cross-border payments, FX or e-money environments highly desirable.
- A genuine builder's mindset — you enjoy the detail as much as the strategy.
- The commercial acumen and gravitas to step up to CFO and operate at Board and investor level.
This is not a role for someone looking to manage a team and delegate the detail. It is for a driven, technically strong finance professional who wants to build something real, prove themselves, and take the top seat when the business is ready for them.
Finance Director (Designate) - FinTech Startup - London employer: LP Recruitment
As a Finance Director (Designate) at our dynamic FinTech startup in London, you will be part of an innovative team that values hands-on contributions and entrepreneurial spirit. We offer a unique opportunity to build the financial infrastructure from the ground up, with a clear path to the CFO role, fostering both personal and professional growth in a fast-paced environment. Our collaborative work culture encourages creativity and strategic thinking, making it an exciting place for those eager to make a significant impact in the B2B payments sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director (Designate) - FinTech Startup - London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend finance meetups, and connect with people in the fintech space. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your hands-on experience! When chatting with potential employers, highlight your ability to build financial processes from scratch. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles to demonstrate your builder's mindset.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company's financial landscape. Understand their regulatory requirements and be ready to discuss how you can help them navigate FCA and DFSA frameworks. This will show you're not just interested, but genuinely invested in their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills and ambitions. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and ready to take on the challenge of building something amazing.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director (Designate) - FinTech Startup - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Finance Director (Designate) role. Highlight your hands-on experience in building financial processes and your understanding of FCA regulations, as these are key to what we're looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to show us your passion for this role. Share why you're excited about building something from scratch and how your previous experiences have prepared you for this challenge. Be genuine and let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Builder's Mindset:In your application, emphasise your ability to roll up your sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty of finance. We want to see examples of how you've successfully built financial infrastructures or processes in the past, so don't hold back on those details!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This not only streamlines the process but also ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and submit your materials!
How to prepare for a job interview at LP Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director (Designate), you need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key financial metrics, regulatory requirements, and the specific challenges faced by fintech companies. Be ready to discuss how you would approach building financial processes from scratch.
✨Showcase Your Builder's Mindset
This role is all about rolling up your sleeves and getting into the nitty-gritty. Prepare examples of past experiences where you've built financial frameworks or processes. Highlight your hands-on approach and how you thrive in dynamic environments.
✨Engage with Strategic Thinking
The interviewers will want to see your strategic vision for the finance function. Think about how you can align financial operations with the company's growth goals. Be prepared to discuss how you would support commercial decision-making and budgeting as the business scales.
✨Demonstrate Regulatory Knowledge
Understanding FCA and DFSA regulations is crucial for this role. Familiarise yourself with the specific capital requirements and reporting standards. Be ready to discuss how you would manage these aspects effectively while ensuring compliance as the company prepares for its trading launch.
