Group Head of Finance

Group Head of Finance

Full-Time 72000 - 108000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
P

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a dynamic consulting group.
  • Company: Join Penman Consulting Group, a leader in consultancy and innovative financial solutions.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work options and a collaborative team culture.
  • Why this job: Shape financial strategies while making a real impact across multiple entities.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 5-10 years of senior finance experience required.
  • Other info: Language skills in French, Dutch, or Flemish are a plus!

The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.

The Group Head of Finance will be responsible for the overall financial leadership, strategy, planning, and governance of both Penman Consulting and Active Steward. This is a senior leadership role requiring hands-on oversight of the day-to-day finance operations while also contributing to strategic decision-making and long-term planning across the group.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Leadership
    • Develop and execute group-wide financial strategy aligned with business goals and growth objectives.
    • Provide strategic insights and financial analysis to support investment, expansion, and operational initiatives.
    • Support the CEOs and Boards in budgeting, forecasting, scenario modelling, and business planning.
    • Oversee all aspects of financial reporting, management accounts, cash flow, and treasury for both companies.
    • Manage budgeting, reforecasting, and variance analysis processes.
    • Ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance in consolidated reporting across entities.
  • Regulatory & Compliance
    • Ensure compliance with all relevant statutory, tax, and regulatory requirements in the UK and any other jurisdictions in which the group operates.
    • Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies during audits and reporting cycles.
    • Maintain up-to-date financial policies and procedures across the group.
  • Operational Finance
    • Manage accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and expense processes.
    • Oversee and optimise financial systems, tools, and integrations (e.g., accounting platforms, ERP systems).
    • Support procurement and contract financial reviews.
  • Team & Stakeholder Management
    • Lead and develop finance staff and external providers (e.g., accountants/bookkeepers).
    • Act as a key liaison between finance and other departments including HR, operations, and technology.
    • Present regular financial updates to stakeholders and provide input for investor or client reporting where needed.

Skills & Experience:

  • Qualified accountant (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with at least 5-10 years of senior finance experience.
  • Proven experience managing finances across multiple entities or a group structure.
  • Strong understanding of UK financial, tax, and regulatory environments.
  • Demonstrated ability to think strategically and act operationally.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
  • Experience in consultancy, scientific services, ESG, or SaaS environments.
  • Knowledge of R&D tax credits, grants, or other innovation finance mechanisms.
  • Familiarity with financial technology platforms and automation.
  • Language skills in French, Dutch, or Flemish is a distinct advantage, reflecting the group's international operations.
  • Knowledge of Belgian financial, tax, and regulatory environments is highly beneficial, particularly in support of cross-border compliance and operational alignment.

If you have any queries, please contact us.

Group Head of Finance employer: Penman Consulting

At Penman Consulting Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility while providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development within the finance sector. With a commitment to strategic leadership and compliance, we empower our employees to make meaningful contributions to our financial governance and operational success.
P

Contact Detail:

Penman Consulting Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Group Head of Finance

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in consultancy or group structures. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the latest trends in financial leadership.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and compliance requirements in the UK, as well as any relevant international standards. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your strategic thinking and operational experience in detail. Think of examples from your past roles where you successfully led financial initiatives or improved processes, as these will be crucial in showcasing your fit for the position.

✨Tip Number 4

If you have language skills, particularly in French, Dutch, or Flemish, make sure to highlight these during your conversations. This could set you apart from other candidates and show your ability to engage with the group's international operations.

We think you need these skills to ace Group Head of Finance

Financial Leadership
Strategic Financial Planning
Budgeting and Forecasting
Financial Reporting
Regulatory Compliance
Taxation Knowledge
Cash Flow Management
Variance Analysis
Stakeholder Management
Team Leadership
Communication Skills
Operational Finance Management
Experience with Financial Systems and ERP
Knowledge of R&D Tax Credits
Understanding of UK Financial Regulations
Cross-Border Compliance Knowledge

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in financial leadership and strategy. Emphasise your qualifications, such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA, and showcase your senior finance experience across multiple entities.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your understanding of the role and how your skills align with the responsibilities listed. Mention your experience in budgeting, forecasting, and compliance, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to Penman Consulting Group's strategic goals.

Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as strategic thinking, stakeholder management, and knowledge of UK financial regulations. If you have experience with financial technology platforms or international operations, be sure to include that as well.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a finance leadership role.

How to prepare for a job interview at Penman Consulting

✨Understand the Financial Landscape

Make sure to brush up on your knowledge of UK financial regulations and compliance requirements. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you are well-prepared for the role.

✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking

Prepare examples of how you've contributed to financial strategy in previous roles. Highlight your ability to align financial goals with business objectives, as this is crucial for the Group Head of Finance position.

✨Showcase Leadership Skills

Be ready to discuss your experience in leading finance teams and managing stakeholders. Share specific instances where your leadership made a positive impact on team performance or financial outcomes.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that require you to think on your feet, such as how you would handle a financial crisis or unexpected regulatory changes. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.

P
Similar positions in other companies
UK’s top job board for Gen Z
discover-jobs-cta
Discover now
>