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- Tasks: Lead transformation and strategic projects to prepare for a £1bn exit.
- Company: PE-backed business with over 1000 employees in the North West.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, equity incentives, and a supportive culture.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal role in a high-growth company aiming for significant valuation.
- Qualifications: Senior finance experience, M&A exposure, and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career-defining impact.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
My client, a PE-backed 1000+ employee business in the North West, is looking for a high-calibre Group Finance Director to join at an exciting point in its journey. The business aims to scale toward a £1bn exit over the next 2-4 years. The challenge is capacity, and there is a lot to do to get the Group “exit ready” and to manage a number of strategic projects across the group. They need someone senior, credible and hands-on to lead that charge.
Responsibilities
- Lead transformation, M&A, exit-prep and project-led work (approximately 70-80% of the role), with the remainder focused on leadership of the finance team.
- Direct five Financial Controllers and a wider finance team of ~30; develop the team through leadership and mentoring.
- Partner with the group’s Managing Directors to strengthen decision-making and drive value across the Group.
- Deliver ERP change, automation, offshoring, improved KPI and reporting packs, and enhanced business partnering across around 20 entities.
- Oversee exit preparation as a central focus, including tough due diligence with a new acquirer; bring PE exit experience and “what good looks like” to the process.
- Be a doer who spots opportunities and challenges, leads from the front, and can operate with limited hand-holding while navigating group strategy and commercial decisions to fruition.
- Engage with acquisitions and have the opportunity to be heavily involved in M&A activity, especially if you have prior experience in this area.
- Operate at a strategic level within a business targeting a £1bn valuation.
Role attributes
- Balance support and guidance with high expectations in a good-spirited team and enjoyable culture.
- Ability to partner with Managing Directors while aligning with group strategy and delivering results.
- Strong senior credibility with a hands-on approach to leadership and delivery.
- Exposure to acquisitions and a track record in PE exit processes preferred.
Location and work pattern
The role is ideally four days a week in the office; shorter notice periods are preferred when possible.
Package and opportunities
The package reflects the seniority and impact of the role, including a competitive salary, bonus and a strong equity-related management incentive plan.
Application
This is a career-defining role – Group FD of a business on a trajectory towards £1Bn. If you are interested, please apply today.
Group Finance Director (Private Equity Backed) employer: SJC Partners
Contact Detail:
SJC Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Finance Director (Private Equity Backed)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance and private equity space. Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Group Finance Director role!
✨Showcase Your Experience
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with M&A and PE exits. Share specific examples of how you've led transformation projects or improved financial processes. This will show them you're not just talk – you can deliver results!
✨Be Ready for Tough Questions
Prepare yourself for some challenging questions during interviews, especially around due diligence and exit strategies. Think about how you would approach these scenarios and be ready to discuss your thought process. Confidence is key, so practice makes perfect!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Finance Director (Private Equity Backed)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in transformation, M&A, and exit preparation. We want to see how your background aligns with the exciting journey our client is on!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your hands-on leadership style and how you've successfully navigated similar challenges in the past.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, emphasise your ability to partner with senior leaders and drive value across a group. We’re looking for someone who can operate at a strategic level, so don’t hold back on sharing your 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’re considered for this career-defining opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at SJC Partners
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Group Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've driven value in previous roles. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've led transformation or M&A projects.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires a hands-on leader who can mentor a team of Financial Controllers. Think about your leadership style and prepare to discuss how you've developed teams in the past. Share stories that highlight your ability to balance support with high expectations.
✨Understand the PE Landscape
Since this position is with a private equity-backed company, it's crucial to understand the PE environment. Familiarise yourself with exit strategies and due diligence processes. Be ready to discuss your experience with exits and what 'good' looks like in that context.
✨Engage with Strategic Vision
The business is aiming for a £1bn exit, so you should align your vision with theirs. Prepare to discuss how you can contribute to their strategic goals. Think about how you've successfully navigated group strategy and commercial decisions in your previous roles.
