At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the UK finance function and drive strategic financial initiatives.
- Company: A high-performing SME backed by major corporate investment, focused on growth.
- Benefits: Autonomy, flexibility, and a chance to shape a high-performing finance team.
- Other info: Opportunity for both developmental Finance Directors and seasoned CFOs.
- Why this job: Join a values-driven culture and make a lasting impact in finance.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with leadership experience and strong commercial acumen.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
A Number 1 finance role, reporting directly to the UK CEO and a key part of the Senior Management Team.
Client Details
A high-performing, entrepreneurial SME, now backed by a major corporate investment is entering an exciting new phase of growth and transformation. With significant investment in both technology and operations, we have been retained to find a Finance Director / CFO to lead the UK finance function and play a pivotal role in the next chapter of the business.
This is a confidential appointment to succeed a long-standing Finance leader as part of a managed succession. The successful candidate will report directly to the UK CEO and work closely with the senior leadership team and new corporate stakeholders.
Our client is one of the UK's largest and most respected players in their market. It provides comprehensive regulatory/compliance advice, technology, and business development support to its clients, enabling them to thrive in a competitive market.
Following a strategic investment by a major corporate group in 2024, the business is now focused on:
- AI-driven technology for lead generation and operational efficiency.
- Enhanced customer support and customer experience tools.
- Preservation of entrepreneurial culture while integrating into a broader corporate structure.
- Long-term market leadership through innovation and strategic positioning.
Description
We are seeking a dynamic and commercially astute Finance Director or CFO to:
- Lead and develop the UK finance function, ensuring high standards of financial control, reporting, and compliance.
- Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and senior leadership team, contributing to business planning and decision-making.
- Drive improvements in MI, reporting, and financial analysis to support growth and innovation.
- Support integration into the wider corporate structure while preserving the entrepreneurial culture.
- Lead transformation initiatives to enhance finance systems, processes, and team capability.
- Ensure effective stakeholder management, including Board-level engagement and external relationships.
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial planning.
- Maintain regulatory compliance within a regulated operating environment.
Profile
Essential Attributes
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- Proven leadership experience in a senior finance role.
- Strong commercial acumen and operational awareness.
- Hands-on approach with the ability to lead by example.
- Excellent stakeholder management an
- A natural collaborator with Board level gravitas.
- Experience of managing teams through change and transformation.
- Comfortable working in a hybrid entrepreneurial/corporate environment.
- A combination of experience gained from operating with SME & Corporate organisations.
Desirable Attributes
- Experience of the professional services sector with a regulatory framework.
- Exposure to tech-enabled business models or CRM/automation platforms.
- Experience in a growth SME with new financial and operational backing.
- Track record of integrating finance teams into broader business operations.
Candidate Profiles Considered
We are open to a range of candidate profiles, including:
- Developmental Finance Directors: High-potential individuals ready to step into their first FD/CFO role.
* Seasoned CFOs: Experienced leaders with a track record of strategic impact and transformation.
Job Offer
-
- Be part of a financially strong, award-winning business with a clear growth trajectory.
- Work in a values-driven culture that prioritises adviser success and innovation.
- Shape the future of a high-performing finance team.
- Enjoy autonomy, flexibility, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact.
CFO employer: Page Group
Contact Detail:
Page Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land CFO
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance sector! Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on your dream CFO role.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with professionals already in the CFO space. This is your chance to learn about their journey and get tips on what it takes to succeed. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the role and can lead to potential job leads!
✨Showcase Your Value
When you get that interview, focus on how your skills align with the company’s goals. Talk about your experience in leading finance teams through transformation and how you can drive innovation. Make it clear that you’re not just another candidate; you’re the one they need!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest CFO openings! Applying directly through us not only gives you access to exclusive roles but also shows your commitment to being part of our dynamic team. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace CFO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the CFO role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements in finance that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for leading the finance function and how you plan to support our growth and transformation.
Showcase Your Commercial Acumen: In your application, demonstrate your strong commercial awareness and operational insight. We’re looking for someone who can act as a strategic partner to the CEO, so make sure to highlight relevant experiences that showcase this skill.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Page Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them to drive business decisions in the past. This shows you can not only manage finances but also contribute strategically.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the company's market position and recent developments, especially regarding their AI-driven technology and customer support initiatives. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these areas will impress the interviewers and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've led teams through change and transformation. Highlight your hands-on approach and ability to collaborate with senior leadership. This is crucial for a role that requires maintaining an entrepreneurial culture while integrating into a corporate structure.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since stakeholder management is key, think of ways you've successfully engaged with board members or external partners. Be ready to discuss your strategies for effective communication and relationship-building, as this will be vital in your new role.