At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, budgeting, forecasting, and M&A activities in a dynamic tech environment.
- Company: High-growth, PE-backed technology platform with strong European presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, and clear path to CFO role.
- Why this job: Accelerate your career towards a C-suite position with real influence on business strategy.
- Qualifications: 6+ years in finance, auditing experience, and fluency in German and English.
- Other info: Join a transformative environment with high autonomy and exposure to senior stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Location: Bonn, Germany
Sector: Technology Private Equity-backed
Budget: 80,000 EUR to 100,000 EUR + bonus + tbd
We are partnering with a high-growth, PE-backed Technology platform seeking a Head of Finance with a clear and structured progression to CFO within 3-5 years. This is a career-defining opportunity for a high-performing finance professional (6+ years' experience) with a background in Auditing, Finance, Controlling, FP&A, who is ready to step into a full leadership role to build their financial engine from the ground up and grow towards a C-suite position.
The organisation is entering its next phase of integration, optimisation, and strategic expansion under strong Private Equity backing. This is not a traditional reporting role. It is a strategic and operational finance leadership position, offering:
- Full ownership of finance operations in Germany
- Leadership of budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning
- Direct involvement in M&A, bolt-on acquisitions, and integration
- Business partnering with senior commercial leadership
- Active exposure to PE stakeholders and group leadership
You will build the finance infrastructure required for scale, professionalise reporting, and act as a strategic sounding board to the management. Over time, the mandate will expand into full P&L ownership and ultimately CFO responsibilities as a succession plan in the next 3-5 years.
Why This Role is Different
- Clear, credible pathway to CFO - succession planning already aligned
- Direct exposure to private equity and board-level decision-making
- Real transformation environment (post-merger integration + growth)
- Backed by a well-established Private Equity firm
- High autonomy and genuine influence over business strategy
This is designed for someone who wants to accelerate into a C-suite role rather than remain in a specialist track.
Ideal Profile
- 6+ years' experience of current or previous experience from Big4/6/8 or equivalent level within Auditing
- Experience in PE-backed, technology, or financial services environments is advantageous
- Ambitious, high-energy, and comfortable operating with senior stakeholders and investors.
- You are excited to set up processes, tools, and reporting from scratch rather than just maintaining them.
- You understand what it takes to get a company 'deal-ready' and are comfortable with the pace of a 2027 exit timeline.
- Fluent German and English
If interested, feel free to apply directly or email me at onam.agarwal@phippscameron.com with your CV and let's get talking.
Finance Leader — Path to CFO in PE-Backed Tech employer: Phipps Cameron Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Phipps Cameron Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Leader — Path to CFO in PE-Backed Tech
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance and tech sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential mentors or peers on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with professionals already in the roles you aspire to. This is your chance to ask questions, gain insights, and show your enthusiasm for the field. Plus, it can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet. We love seeing our community take initiative!
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your achievements in finance, especially those that demonstrate your strategic thinking and leadership skills. When you’re in interviews, use these examples to illustrate how you can add value to the company. We want to see you shine!
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply directly through our website. It shows you’re serious and gives you a better chance of being noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals ready to step into leadership roles like the one you’re eyeing. Let’s make it happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Leader — Path to CFO in PE-Backed Tech
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Finance Leader role. Highlight your background in Auditing, Finance, and FP&A, and don’t forget to showcase any experience you have in PE-backed environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about this opportunity and how your ambitions align with the company's goals. Be sure to mention your desire to step into a C-suite role and your readiness for the challenges ahead.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: This role is all about leadership, so make sure to highlight any relevant experiences where you've led teams or projects. Talk about how you've built financial processes from scratch and your ability to partner with senior stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Phipps Cameron Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you’re well-versed in the financial metrics relevant to the role. Brush up on your budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning skills. Be ready to discuss how you've used these in past roles, especially in a PE-backed environment.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leadership, so prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading finance teams or projects. Think about times when you’ve influenced business strategy or partnered with senior stakeholders to drive results.
✨Understand the PE Landscape
Familiarise yourself with how private equity works, especially in the tech sector. Be prepared to discuss how you can add value in M&A situations and what it means to be 'deal-ready'. This will show you understand the strategic nature of the role.
✨Cultural Fit Matters
Research the company culture and values. Be ready to explain why you’re excited about this specific opportunity and how you align with their vision for growth and transformation. A good cultural fit can set you apart from other candidates.