At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and drive growth in a dynamic PE-backed environment.
- Company: Join a thriving Manufacturing and Distribution group with a strong engineering focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, influence on growth strategy, and a chance to shape the future.
- Why this job: Make a measurable impact and deliver a compelling equity story in a high-quality platform.
- Qualifications: ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified with experience in PE-backed businesses and M&A.
- Other info: Confidential discussions; excellent opportunity for career advancement.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Parkinson Lee Executive Search is the retained partner to a private equity–backed Manufacturing and Distribution group on the appointment of a Chief Financial Officer to play a central role in its value-creation and exit journey. The Group comprises several specialist operating businesses serving industrial, manufacturing, energy, and engineering markets. An engineering-led model, strong customer relationships, and technical differentiation have driven sustained growth ahead of market benchmarks. Following a recent PE investment, the business is executing a clearly defined 3–5 year value-creation plan, with growth driven by organic expansion, operational leverage, and an active buy-and-build strategy.
Key responsibilities include:
- Owning the financial value-creation agenda and 3–5 year plan
- Leading forecasting, cash management, covenant performance, and banking relationships
- Playing a lead role in M&A, including modelling, diligence, execution, and integration
- Strengthening financial systems, reporting, controls, and governance to PE standards
- Supporting ERP implementation and finance transformation
- Acting as a true business partner to the CEO, providing challenge, insight, and pace
- Demonstrating strong leadership credentials, building a scalable, high-performing finance function
- Delivering EBITDA growth, working capital improvement, and exit-ready reporting
Candidate profile:
- ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified
- Demonstrable experience in PE-backed businesses
- Proven involvement in acquisitions and integrations
- Background in distribution, industrial, engineering, or asset-light B2B environments
- Commercial, hands-on, and credible with investors, lenders, and Boards
This is a classic PE CFO opportunity: a high-quality platform, an engaged investor, and a clearly defined exit horizon. The CFO will be instrumental in shaping the growth strategy, executing acquisitions, professionalising the finance function, and positioning the business for a successful future transaction. For a PE-experienced CFO seeking genuine influence and value-creation responsibility, this role offers the chance to make a measurable impact and deliver a compelling equity story. All discussions are strictly confidential. For more information, please follow the link below and apply with a full, current CV.
Locations
Chief Financial Officer in Leeds, Yorkshire employer: Parkinson Lee
Contact Detail:
Parkinson Lee Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer in Leeds, Yorkshire
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and private equity sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential employers or colleagues who might know of openings. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their financial strategies, recent acquisitions, and market position. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the CFO role, especially in terms of value creation and M&A. Highlight specific examples from your past that showcase your leadership and financial acumen.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer in Leeds, Yorkshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the CFO role. Highlight your experience in PE-backed businesses and any relevant achievements in financial value creation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell your story. Explain why you're passionate about this opportunity and how your background in engineering-led environments makes you the perfect fit for the role.
Showcase Leadership Experience: Since this role requires strong leadership credentials, be sure to include examples of how you've built high-performing teams and driven financial transformation in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application is seen by the right people and gives you the best chance to stand out in the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Parkinson Lee
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the manufacturing and distribution sectors. Be prepared to discuss how you've driven EBITDA growth and improved working capital in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your M&A Experience
Since this role involves significant M&A responsibilities, come ready to share specific examples of past acquisitions you've led. Highlight your approach to modelling, due diligence, and integration, as well as any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Understand the PE Landscape
Familiarise yourself with private equity dynamics, especially in relation to value creation and exit strategies. Be ready to discuss how you've aligned financial strategies with PE expectations and how you can contribute to the group's 3–5 year plan.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
This position requires strong leadership credentials. Prepare to discuss how you've built high-performing finance teams and fostered a culture of accountability and excellence. Share examples of how you've acted as a business partner to CEOs and influenced strategic decisions.