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- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a pioneering personal care startup.
- Company: Join a fast-growing, science-driven company redefining natural personal care products.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity for impact, and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a purpose-driven team shaping the future of sustainable consumer products.
- Qualifications: Senior finance or operations experience, ideally in startups, with strong commercial acumen.
- Other info: Work closely with the CEO to drive long-term value creation.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Do you have a strategic finance background and a passion for scaling innovative, science-led businesses? Are you excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of a fast-growing startup combining cutting-edge chemistry with sustainable consumer products? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where you can make an immediate impact, lead operations, and build out a business for global growth?
MacGregor Black are partnered with a pioneering personal care business seeking a Head of Finance & Operations to join their team based in Leeds. This is a rare opportunity to join an early-stage, science-driven company that’s redefining natural personal care. Backed by years of academic research and commercialised through their own consumer brand, the business is already gaining traction across international markets.
As Head of Finance & Operations, you’ll play a central role in scaling the company’s operations and financial strategy while partnering closely with the CEO to drive long-term value creation.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead all aspects of financial strategy, including planning, budgeting, reporting, and compliance.
- Oversee financial operations including accounting, tax, treasury, and audit functions.
- Translate high-level strategy into robust operational plans, implementing KPIs and performance metrics to drive execution.
- Support fundraising activity through investor relations, due diligence, and the preparation of financial models and materials.
- Manage and develop internal processes to ensure operational efficiency and scalable growth.
- Drive strategic IP portfolio management, exploring models for commercialisation including licensing and co-development.
- Act as a key strategic partner to the CEO and board, providing financial insight and commercial leadership.
- Proven experience in a senior finance and/or operations leadership role, ideally within a startup or scale-up environment.
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and deliver results.
- A track record of building and improving systems, processes, and performance across both finance and operations.
- Experience with IP-based businesses, consumer goods, or scientific/technical product companies is highly desirable.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a hands-on approach and a passion for innovation and sustainability.
This is a unique chance to be part of something purpose-driven from the ground up – where your leadership will directly influence the trajectory of the business and the industry it’s looking to transform.
Salary circa £80-100k
For more information, please contact Fraser Graham.
Head of Finance & Operations (Leeds) employer: MacGregor Black
Contact Detail:
MacGregor Black Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance & Operations (Leeds)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the finance and operations sectors, especially those who have experience in startups or scale-ups. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the role and company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the company thoroughly, focusing on their innovative products and market positioning. Understanding their unique selling points and challenges will help you articulate how your skills and experience align with their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led financial strategies and operational improvements in previous roles. Highlight your entrepreneurial mindset and hands-on approach, as these qualities are crucial for a startup environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your passion for sustainability and innovation in your conversations. Share any relevant projects or initiatives you've been involved in that showcase your commitment to these values, as they resonate strongly with the company's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance & Operations (Leeds)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance and operations, particularly in startup or scale-up environments. Emphasise your achievements in leading financial strategies and operational improvements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for innovative, science-led businesses. Discuss how your background aligns with the company's mission and how you can contribute to their growth and sustainability goals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on skills such as financial planning, budgeting, compliance, and operational efficiency. Mention any experience with IP-based businesses or consumer goods to strengthen your application.
Showcase Leadership Experience: Provide examples of your leadership roles and how you've driven cross-functional initiatives. Highlight your ability to partner with executives and provide strategic insights that have led to successful outcomes.
How to prepare for a job interview at MacGregor Black
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a candidate for the Head of Finance & Operations, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've successfully developed and implemented financial strategies in previous roles, particularly in startup or scale-up environments.
✨Highlight Your Cross-Functional Leadership
This role requires strong commercial acumen and the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've collaborated with different teams to achieve business goals, showcasing your leadership skills and teamwork.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of IP and Compliance
Given the focus on IP-based businesses, it's important to show your knowledge in this area. Prepare to discuss your experience with intellectual property management and compliance, as well as how you've navigated these aspects in previous roles.
✨Express Your Passion for Innovation and Sustainability
The company is looking for someone with an entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for innovation. Share your thoughts on sustainable practices in finance and operations, and how you can contribute to the company's mission of redefining natural personal care.
