Finance Director

Sims Hilditch is a Top 100 UK Interior Design studio, with ambitions for continued growth of its brand and business. The Finance Director works closely with the senior leadership team (SLT) and the Board to develop strategy, support decision making, deliver financial stability and drive profitable growth. The role is responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the company (including financial planning, forecasting, analysis, & reporting) as well as maintaining compliance with regulations. Alongside this, the Financial Director has responsibility for People & Culture, Sustainability & B Corp, IT & digital transformation, and Premises (Cotswold Studio and London Studio). All areas are key in underpinning the continued success of the company. It is a busy, pivotal role in a fast-paced business.

What we're looking for:

• Financial Planning and Strategy: Lead SLT in development of annual plan, setting objectives, strategy and growth targets. Prepare detailed 1-year financial forecasts & operational/department budgets with a view of 3-year financial targets. Provide financial analysis and insights to guide strategic decision‑making and profitability.
• Budgeting and Forecasting: Monitor performance against budgets, analyse variances, and give direction to the team, supporting them in problem‑solving on margins, unexpected costs, fee revenue etc. Regular re‑forecasting to maintain visibility/provide insight on meeting financial targets at YE. Prepare timely monthly management accounts (P&L / balance sheet) following ME close. Report financial results to the SLT and Board with KPIs, variance analysis and quarterly cash‑flow updates, and quarterly updates to the full team and external partners. Ensure compliance with statutory reporting and manage accurate and timely preparation of statutory accounts and tax.
• VAT: Oversee compliance and reporting on UK VAT (including CIS, AMS and reduced VAT, qualifying projects) plus non‑UK VAT (on services and goods outside the UK).
• Cash Flow Management: Responsible for cashflow forecasting and management to ensure sufficient liquidity for day‑to‑day operations and strategic investments. Manage relationships with banks, negotiating credit terms and managing financing activities.
• Cost Control and Investment: Identify cost‑saving opportunities and efficiency improvements. Provide financial analysis and ROI to support capital investment decisions and manage capex planning and control following sign off. Oversee the delivery of the P&C strategy across the business. Monthly payroll/pension. Ensure both studios are kept maintained at a world‑class level.
• Sustainability and B Corp: Lead continuous drive on sustainability via a strategy of Advocacy, Waste Reduction & Impact. Oversee delivery of the annual Impact Report and B Corp re‑certification in 2028.
• IT and Digital Transformation: Responsible for ensuring IT solutions are fit for purpose and fully support Studio operations. Promote culture of innovation & challenge, championing new technology & digital transformation.
• Other: Review and take advice on all legal contracts. Responsible for company‑wide insurance policies and annual renewal.
• Team Leadership and Development: Lead, mentor, and develop the team of 4 you have responsibility for – ensuring effective delegation and support for professional growth. Promote a culture of continuous improvement within the finance function by implementing process enhancements and new technologies.
• Social and Environmental Responsibility: Actively contribute to initiatives promoting social equity, diversity, and inclusion at workplace and in our community. Support the company’s efforts in community engagement and considered sourcing. Play your part in helping achieve the company’s sustainability goals by implementing environmentally friendly practices. Collaborate across teams to develop and implement strategies that improve the company’s social and environmental impact. Act as a champion for positive change by promoting and embedding social and environmental responsibility across the business.

Experience & Qualifications:

• BSc/BA degree. CIMA/ACCA certification with relevant post‑qualification experience. Min. 8 years’ experience in finance role, with min. 1–3 years in leadership position. Sage experience required, with advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Key Skills and Competencies: Strategic Thinking, Leadership and Team Management, Analytical Skills, Communication, Problem‑Solving, Attention to Detail.

Up to 22 days of annual holiday allowance plus bank holidays. Studio closure between Christmas and New Year. Early finish Fridays from June to August, and in December. Staff discounts offered by many suppliers. Birthday day off in addition to your annual holiday allowance. Christmas present and birthday present from Sims Hilditch. Professional development to support and strengthen you in your role. Enhanced maternity pay. Refer a friend scheme.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement: At Sims Hilditch, we know that a diverse workforce enriches any creative practice and comprises people from all backgrounds, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, and religion. We also recognise the moral, economic and social reasons to make diversity, inclusion, and equality central to our work. Our ambition is to help remove the barriers to entry and progression in the profession through greater equality across our work and improved recruitment and training of our staff.