At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and M&A initiatives for a rapidly growing SME.
- Company: Join a fast-growing services company aiming to double turnover year-on-year.
- Benefits: Enjoy autonomy, ownership, and the chance to build a world-class finance function.
- Other info: Work in a collaborative culture that values curiosity, integrity, and transparency.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting transformation with direct influence on business outcomes.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience as CFO in high-growth SMEs and M&A execution.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
About Us:
Our client is a fast-growing SME in the services industry, poised for rapid expansion through strategic acquisitions and organic scaling. As they navigate an ambitious growth trajectory—aiming to double turnover year-on-year—we are seeking a dynamic, experienced, and humble Chief Financial Officer to lead their financial strategy, operational scalability, and M&A initiatives.
Role Summary:
The CFO will be a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for shaping and executing financial strategy to support the company's aggressive growth plans. You will bring a balance of strategic vision and operational discipline, with proven experience in M&A, project accounting, team building, and exit readiness.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Financial Leadership: Lead financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting to support business growth. Drive the financial strategy and M&A roadmap (build and buy), ensuring value creation. Work closely with the CEO and executive team to align financial goals with business objectives.
- M&A and Exit Strategy: Lead due diligence, integration, and post-acquisition financial performance. Prepare the business for potential exit scenarios (trade sale, PE investment, etc.). Ensure robust financial controls and processes are in place for investor readiness.
- Project Accounting & Operational Finance: Oversee project-based accounting and revenue recognition across large-scale service projects. Implement performance tracking frameworks aligned with project lifecycles and profitability. Develop robust financial systems and controls for a scalable, multi-entity structure.
- Leadership & Team Building: Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing finance team in a non-hierarchical, collaborative culture. Champion continuous improvement, fostering agility and innovation in a dynamic environment. Act as a partner to business units, ensuring finance is embedded in operational decision-making.
Requirements:
- Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
- Demonstrable experience as CFO or senior financial leader in a high-growth SME.
- Proven M&A execution experience, including due diligence, integration, and strategic alignment.
- Background in the services industry with exposure to project accounting and large-scale contracts.
- Track record of leading a business through a successful exit.
- Experience in scaling businesses – ideally doubling or significantly growing revenues in short timeframes.
- Comfortable in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, and evolving environment.
- Experience in private equity-backed or founder-led businesses.
- Strong operational mindset with ability to roll up sleeves when required.
- Confident, yet humble leader who thrives in non-hierarchical, collaborative teams.
What our client Offers:
- Opportunity to lead a high-growth business through an exciting transformation.
- Direct influence on business strategy and outcomes.
- Autonomy, ownership, and room to build a world-class finance function from the ground up.
- A culture that values curiosity, integrity, and transparency.
Application Process: If you’re ready to lead with impact, scale with vision, and leave a legacy in a purpose-driven, fast-moving business, we’d love to hear from you.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) (Bath) employer: Placed
Contact Detail:
Placed Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer (CFO) (Bath)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the finance and services industry, especially those who have experience in high-growth SMEs. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the role and company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in M&A and financial strategy, particularly in the context of scaling businesses. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to lead financial strategy and manage M&A processes. Highlight your successes in project accounting and how you've built high-performing teams in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent growth initiatives and any strategic acquisitions they may have made. Being knowledgeable about their business trajectory will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your vision aligns with their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer (CFO) (Bath)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as a CFO or senior financial leader, particularly in high-growth SMEs. Emphasise your M&A execution experience and any relevant project accounting skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the company’s vision. Discuss how your strategic financial leadership aligns with their aggressive growth plans and your experience in scaling businesses.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: Use specific examples to demonstrate your track record of leading successful exits and driving financial strategy. Quantify your achievements where possible to showcase your impact on previous organisations.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Illustrate your ability to build and mentor high-performing teams. Mention your experience in fostering a collaborative culture and how you’ve championed continuous improvement in past roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Placed
✨Understand the Company’s Growth Strategy
Before the interview, make sure to research the company's growth trajectory and their plans for expansion. Be prepared to discuss how your financial strategies can align with their ambitious goals, particularly in M&A and scaling operations.
✨Showcase Your M&A Experience
Given the importance of M&A in this role, be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences. Discuss the due diligence processes you’ve led, integration challenges you’ve overcome, and how you ensured financial performance post-acquisition.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a CFO, you’ll need to build and lead a high-performing finance team. Prepare to talk about your leadership style, how you foster collaboration in non-hierarchical settings, and any successful team-building initiatives you've implemented.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you’ve faced in project accounting or operational finance, and how you navigated them to achieve positive outcomes.