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- Tasks: Drive financial performance and lead the finance function through transformation and growth.
- Company: PE-backed multisite education business in Manchester, focused on strategic development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and opportunity for significant impact.
- Other info: Ideal for candidates ready to step into their first standalone CFO role.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while navigating a dynamic financial landscape.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with experience in PE-backed environments and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
Marks Sattin Executive Search is partnering with a PE-Backed Multisite Education business to appoint a commercially astute and strategic CFO. This is a key leadership role, with responsibility for driving financial performance, supporting continued growth, and preparing the business for a successful exit, while also shaping its journey beyond that milestone.
The business requires a CFO who can confidently navigate a complex stakeholder environment. This includes regular engagement with the Board, private equity sponsors, lending banks, and external stakeholders. The successful candidate will ensure rigorous financial controls, robust reporting structures, and full compliance with both regulatory and transparency requirements, particularly those set by public sector partners.
As a central figure in the business's next stage of evolution, you will lead the finance function through a period of transformation and expansion. This includes day-to-day management of finance operations, delivering high-quality, timely reporting, and embedding strong KPIs, governance, and financial frameworks that support strategic decision-making and sustainable growth.
Uniquely the client would consider candidates stepping into their first standalone CFO role within a PE-backed environment, particularly those currently operating at Divisional Finance Director or Financial Controller level who bring the right blend of commercial insight, operational rigour, and leadership capability.
The Ideal candidates:
- Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/ACMA).
- Experience as a divisional Finance Director or Financial Controller in a PE-Backed ideally within the consumer services sector business or a business providing services to public sector partners.
- Proven expertise managing financial processes and building strong relationships with local authorities.
- Demonstrable transactional experience, including acquisitions, integrations, consolidations.
CFO PE Backed Multisite Education business | Manchester, UK employer: Marks Sattin Ltd
Contact Detail:
Marks Sattin Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land CFO PE Backed Multisite Education business | Manchester, UK
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a CFO role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its stakeholders. Understand their financial performance and challenges, so you can showcase how your experience aligns with their needs. This will help you stand out as a strategic thinker.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your background as a Divisional Finance Director or Financial Controller makes you the perfect fit for a standalone CFO role. Highlight your commercial insight and operational rigour to impress the interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that dream job, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace CFO PE Backed Multisite Education business | Manchester, UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of CFO in a PE-backed multisite education business. Highlight your experience with financial performance, stakeholder engagement, and compliance, as these are key areas for us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've driven growth and managed financial processes in previous roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a central figure in our next stage of evolution, we want to see your leadership capabilities. Include examples of how you've led finance teams through transformation and expansion, and how you've embedded strong governance frameworks.
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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marks Sattin Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've driven financial performance in previous roles. Prepare specific examples of how you've implemented financial controls and reporting structures.
✨Understand the Stakeholder Landscape
This role involves engaging with various stakeholders, including the Board and private equity sponsors. Research their backgrounds and interests, and think about how you can align your vision for the business with their expectations. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully navigated complex stakeholder environments in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a central figure in the business's evolution, your leadership style will be crucial. Think about how you can articulate your approach to leading finance teams through transformation and expansion. Share examples of how you've embedded KPIs and governance frameworks that support strategic decision-making.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Prepare to discuss how you would handle challenges like financial compliance or managing relationships with local authorities. Use real-life examples to illustrate your thought process and decision-making abilities.