At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and support decision-making for a £25-30m business unit.
- Company: Join INSPECS, a global leader in eyewear design and manufacturing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and long-term career development opportunities.
- Other info: Work closely with senior leaders and drive impactful financial strategies.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance in a dynamic international organisation.
- Qualifications: Professional finance qualification and strong leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
The Head of Finance is the lead finance professional for INSPECS Limited, responsible for financial leadership, commercial support and operational performance across a £25-30m business unit. Combining financial control with strategic business partnering, the role offers significant influence on pricing, profitability, forecasting and decision-making within a listed international Group.
INSPECS Group plc is a leading global eyewear designer, manufacturer and distributor, supplying optical, sunglasses and safety products to customers in more than 80 countries worldwide. Listed on AIM and headquartered in Bath, the Group operates through a vertically integrated model, with international offices across Europe, North America and Asia, alongside manufacturing facilities in Vietnam, China and Italy. Driven by innovation, strategic growth and a strong portfolio of globally recognised brands, INSPECS continues to strengthen its position within the international eyewear market.
This role sits within INSPECS Limited, a key trading business within the Group, offering the opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping commercial performance and supporting future growth.
Description
The Head of Finance is responsible for financial leadership, commercial support and operational performance across the business. Working closely with senior management and Group Finance, the role combines financial control, reporting, forecasting and governance with commercial decision support to help drive growth, profitability and operational efficiency.
- Financial Leadership & Commercial Support
- Provide financial insight and recommendations to support strategic decision‑making.
- Lead budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes.
- Support pricing, margin optimisation, profitability analysis, stock management and cost control initiatives.
- Identify and communicate financial risks and opportunities to senior stakeholders.
- Drive financial strategies that support business growth and operational performance.
- Financial Reporting & Control
- Oversee the monthly close process, ensuring accurate and timely management reporting.
- Monitor business performance through meaningful variance analysis and KPI reporting.
- Maintain strong balance sheet control, including working capital management.
- Ensure compliance with accounting standards, internal controls and Group reporting requirements.
- Liaise with auditors, tax advisers and other external stakeholders.
- Leadership & Team Development
- Lead, develop and mentor the finance team.
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and professional development.
- Define clear responsibilities and performance expectations across the function.
- Group Finance & Operational Support
- Partner closely with Group Finance to ensure alignment with reporting, governance and compliance requirements.
- Support operational teams through financial analysis and business insight.
- Drive process improvements, systems enhancements and controls to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
- Oversee transactional finance activities, including accounts payable, credit control and reconciliations.
Profile
- Essential
- Professional qualification (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ACA) or equivalent experience.
- Strong leadership and people management experience within a finance function.
- Proven experience in financial strategy, budgeting, and reporting.
- Strong understanding of financial regulations, compliance, and controls.
- Excellent analytical skills and ability to interpret financial data for strategic decision‑making.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Desirable
- Experience working within a Group finance structure.
- Experience of working in distribution/consumer goods/brand business.
- Experience in financial systems process improvements.
Job Offer
- Excellent base salary plus benefits.
- Opportunity to lead finance for a significant business unit within a listed international Group.
- Broad commercial remit with genuine influence over business performance and decision‑making.
- Significant exposure to senior leadership and Group Finance stakeholders.
- High levels of autonomy, ownership and visibility.
- Opportunity to shape the future direction of the finance function as the business continues to evolve.
- Hybrid working arrangement with three days per week in the Bath office.
- Long‑term career development within a growing international organisation.
Head of Finance in Bath employer: Michael Page
INSPECS Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Bath, where innovation and strategic growth are at the forefront. As the Head of Finance, you will enjoy a high level of autonomy and influence over key business decisions, alongside opportunities for professional development within a globally recognised group. With a strong emphasis on team culture and continuous improvement, INSPECS fosters an inclusive atmosphere that supports both personal and career growth, making it an ideal place for finance professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance in Bath
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance in Bath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Michael Page.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Michael Page.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Michael Page will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Michael Page employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
