At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and drive growth in a high-growth IT Managed Services business.
- Company: Dynamic IT Managed Services firm backed by private equity.
- Benefits: Equity participation, board-level influence, and a clear value-creation journey.
- Why this job: Be a key player in scaling the business and preparing for a successful exit.
- Qualifications: CFO experience in IT Managed Services and proven PE-backed environment expertise.
- Other info: Join a fast-paced, change-driven environment with significant career impact.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
The Business: We are working with a high-growth IT Managed Services business that has recently completed its first private equity buyout. The business has delivered c.30% year-on-year growth for the past five years and is entering the next phase of its journey under PE ownership. The investor’s mandate is clear:
- Execute a disciplined buy-and-build strategy
- Professionalise the finance function to PE standards
- Deliver a successful exit within c.4–5 years
This is a value-creation CFO role, not a reporting position.
The Role: The CFO will be a core member of the leadership team and a trusted partner to the CEO and PE sponsor. You will own the financial strategy and play a central role in scaling the business, integrating acquisitions, and preparing the company for exit.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the financial strategy across a PE-backed growth journey
- Partner closely with the CEO and PE sponsor on value creation initiatives
- Build a scalable finance function fit for a multi-entity group
- Implement robust MI, KPIs, forecasting and cash management
- Drive margin improvement and EBITDA growth
- Lead all financial aspects of acquisitions, including:
- Deal structuring support
- Post-acquisition integration
Candidate Profile (Strict Criteria): ONLY candidates meeting ALL of the below should apply:
- Current or previous CFO of an IT Managed Services business
- Proven experience working in a PE-backed environment
- Experience on a full PE ownership journey (or currently on one)
- Demonstrable exposure to buy-and-build strategies
- Hands-on experience integrating acquisitions
- Strong commercial and operational finance background
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
- Comfortable operating in a fast-growth, change-heavy environment
What’s on Offer:
- Meaningful equity participation aligned to exit
- Opportunity to help build and exit a scaled IT services platform
- True board-level influence and visibility with the PE sponsor
- A clearly defined 4–5 year value-creation journey
Chief Financial Officer employer: Savant Recruitment Experts
Contact Detail:
Savant Recruitment Experts Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the IT Managed Services sector and let them know you're on the lookout for CFO roles. Personal recommendations can make all the difference, especially in a tight-knit industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your PE experience. Be ready to discuss how you've driven value creation and integrated acquisitions in past roles. We want to hear your success stories!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on approach! When chatting with potential employers, highlight your operational finance background and how you've tackled challenges in fast-growth environments. They’ll want to see you as a board-level operator.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are ready to take on exciting challenges in the PE-backed landscape.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Value Creation Mindset: When writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience in driving value creation. We want to see how you've contributed to growth and success in previous roles, especially in a PE-backed environment.
Tailor Your Experience: Don’t just send a generic CV! We’re looking for specific examples of your work as a CFO in IT Managed Services. Make it clear how your background aligns with our needs, particularly around buy-and-build strategies and financial integration.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on what really matters. Highlight your key achievements and how they relate to the role we’re offering.
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Savant Recruitment Experts
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the IT Managed Services sector, especially those tied to PE-backed growth. Be ready to discuss how you've driven EBITDA growth and margin improvements in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
This role is all about value creation, so come prepared with examples of how you've successfully executed buy-and-build strategies. Highlight your experience in integrating acquisitions and how you’ve partnered with CEOs and investors to drive financial strategy.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-world challenges. Think through scenarios related to debt management, cash flow forecasting, and vendor due diligence. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies in these situations.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Fit
Cultural alignment is crucial, especially in a fast-growth environment. Research the company’s values and be ready to discuss how your leadership style and operational finance background align with their mission. Show them you’re not just a numbers person, but a team player who can thrive in change-heavy settings.