At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations and strategic planning in a growing tech company.
- Company: Quantum Detectors, a dynamic technology firm at Harwell Campus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, 30 days holiday, and enhanced pension.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on scientific discovery while shaping finance strategy.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with hands-on finance experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Quantum Detectors is entering an exciting phase of growth and innovation, and we’re looking for a trusted, influential, and hands‑on Head of Finance to guide us through it. Take full ownership of the finance function at a growing, globally active technology company. This is a hands‑on role with genuine strategic impact — ideal for someone who enjoys both running day‑to‑day finance operations and working closely with the CEO on high‑level planning.
Why This Role Matters
Our products power scientific discovery at world‑leading research facilities. Your work will power us, ensuring we scale sustainably, make smart commercial decisions, and stay financially strong as demand for our technology grows. You’ll be the CEO’s trusted finance partner and a key voice in investment, planning, and strategic decision‑making—and you’ll still enjoy rolling up your sleeves and keeping our books clean, accurate, and insightful. You will be responsible for in‑sourcing core tasks from external providers and establishing a scalable, resilient internal finance function with impeccable controls.
What you’ll do
- Manage all daily finance operations (AP / AR, payroll, reconciliations, expenses)
- Lead budgeting, forecasting, month‑end and year‑end close
- Produce financial reports, cashflow forecasts, and management accounts
- Create financial models to support strategic decisions
- Partner with the Senior Leadership Team on growth and investment planning
- Support grants, funding rounds, and investor reporting
- Maintain strong internal controls, processes, and financial policies
- Improve financial systems and reporting tools (Xero, ERP, Salesforce)
- Manage external accountants, auditors, and banking partners
What we’re looking for
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
- Experience in an SME or scale‑up environment
- Strong hands‑on finance control experience
- Confident with Xero, Google Sheets, and ERP systems
- Able to turn data into clear commercial insight
- Excellent communicator who can influence non‑finance stakeholders
- Experience with grants, investment rounds, or investor relations
- Comfortable owning the full finance function end to end
What we offer
- £60,000–£80,000 DOE
- Hybrid working
- 30 days holiday + public holidays
- Enhanced pension
- 35‑hour week
- Modern facilities at Harwell Campus
- Opportunity to shape the finance function as the business grows
If you’re looking for a role that mixes strategic influence with hands‑on financial ownership - we’d love to hear from you. No agents, please.
Head of Finance employer: Quantum Detectors
Quantum Detectors is an exceptional employer located at the innovative Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters growth and collaboration. As a Head of Finance, you will not only enjoy a competitive salary and hybrid working arrangements but also have the unique opportunity to shape the finance function of a rapidly growing technology company that powers scientific discovery. With 30 days of holiday, enhanced pension benefits, and a supportive environment for professional development, Quantum Detectors is committed to ensuring that its employees thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its financial strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in areas like budgeting and forecasting. Show them you’re not just a number cruncher but a strategic partner!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to convey your hands-on experience and strategic insight clearly and confidently. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to influence non-finance stakeholders and make an impact from day one.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our exciting journey at Quantum Detectors.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in finance control and any relevant qualifications like ACA, ACCA, or CIMA. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you’re excited about the Head of Finance role and how you can contribute to our growth. Be sure to mention your hands-on experience and strategic insights.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use examples from your past roles where you’ve managed finance operations or influenced decision-making. We love seeing how you’ve turned data into actionable insights.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Let’s get started on this exciting journey together!
How to prepare for a job interview at Quantum Detectors
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of how you've improved financial processes or made strategic decisions based on data.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
This role is all about balancing day-to-day operations with high-level planning. Be prepared to discuss how you've partnered with leadership teams in the past. Think of specific instances where your financial insights influenced business strategy or investment decisions.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Their Tools
Quantum Detectors uses Xero, ERP systems, and Google Sheets. If you have experience with these tools, highlight it! If not, do a bit of research to understand their functionalities and how they can improve financial reporting and operations.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
You’ll need to influence non-finance stakeholders, so practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. Prepare to discuss how you’ve successfully communicated financial insights to different audiences in your previous roles.
