At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and drive growth in a fast-scaling AI company.
- Company: Join a cutting-edge AI firm backed by a leading private equity firm.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, equity options, and the chance to shape an innovative company.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative leadership team at a pivotal growth stage.
- Qualifications: Proven CFO experience in tech or SaaS, with strong M&A and finance scaling skills.
- Other info: This role offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of AI and automation.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 Β£ per year.
Sowena Group have been retained by a cutting-edge, fast-scaling AI company recently backed by a leading private equity firm. With a mission to reshape how businesses harness artificial intelligence across sectors, we are entering an exciting phase of growth that includes a strategic international buy and build campaign. Their innovative product suite, strong customer demand, and significant market opportunity positions them for rapid expansion and a successful exit within a 3β5-year horizon. The Role: The CFO will play a pivotal role in driving growth and value creation. You will be a key strategic partner to the CEO and investors, responsible for leading the financial strategy, professionalising the finance function, and executing a disciplined international M&A strategy. This is a hands-on, transformative leadership role ideal for a CFO who thrives in dynamic, high-growth, private equity environments. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership Partner with the CEO, Board, and PE sponsors to define and execute the companyβs growth and exit strategy. Lead financial planning, analysis, forecasting, and reporting to support strategic decision-making. Act as a key voice in shaping corporate strategy, including geographic expansion, pricing models, and investment priorities. Finance Transformation & Operational Excellence Professionalise and scale the finance function to match rapid international growth. Implement systems, controls, processes, and KPIs to drive performance visibility and scalability. Ensure robust financial governance, compliance, and risk management across all jurisdictions. M&A and Buy & Build Execution Lead and execute on the international M&A strategy, including target identification, due diligence, deal execution, and post-merger integration. Build a repeatable playbook for efficient integration of acquired businesses. Stakeholder Management Own relationships with investors, auditors, banks, and external advisors. Regularly report financial and operational performance to the Board and PE sponsors. Prepare the business for a successful exit (trade sale, secondary buyout, or IPO). Candidate Profile: Essential Experience: Proven CFO (or senior finance leader) within a private equity-backed business, ideally in tech, SaaS, or within a reoccurring revenue business model. Demonstrable track record of leading international M&A (buy & build) and successful exits. Experience in scaling finance functions within high-growth environments. Strong understanding of subscription-based and/or data-driven business models. Skills & Attributes: Strategic mindset with strong commercial instincts and operational grip. Highly analytical with excellent financial modelling and reporting capability. Excellent communicator, capable of building trust with internal and external stakeholders. Agile, hands-on, and comfortable in a fast-paced, evolving environment. Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent). Why Join Us? Join at a critical inflection point with a high-potential AI business backed by experienced investors. Shape the future of a truly innovative company making waves in AI and automation. Be part of a seasoned leadership team with a clear and ambitious plan for international growth and exit. Competitive remuneration, meaningful equity, and the chance to make a real mark. This is an exciting opportunity to join a company at a critical juncture in its growth. For more details, to be considered for this opportunity or to confidentially discuss the market then please reach out to Perran Cooke at Sowena Group or click apply.
Chief Financial Officer employer: Sowena Group
Contact Detail:
Sowena Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer
β¨Tip Number 1
Network strategically within the private equity and tech sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, and conferences where you can meet key players in AI and finance. Building relationships with professionals in these areas can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals.
β¨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest trends in AI and financial management. Subscribe to relevant publications and follow thought leaders on social media. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the company's mission and market.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with M&A and scaling finance functions in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in high-growth environments, as this will be crucial for the role.
β¨Tip Number 4
Research the company thoroughly, including its product suite and market position. Understanding their unique value proposition will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their strategic goals during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as a CFO or senior finance leader, particularly in private equity-backed businesses. Emphasise your track record in international M&A and scaling finance functions in high-growth environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your strategic mindset and operational grip. Discuss how your skills align with the company's mission to reshape AI across sectors and your vision for driving growth and value creation.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In your application, include specific examples of successful exits and M&A strategies you've led. Use metrics to demonstrate your impact, such as revenue growth percentages or successful integration outcomes.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to build trust with stakeholders. Mention any experiences where you effectively communicated financial performance to boards or investors.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sowena Group
β¨Understand the Companyβs Vision
Before the interview, make sure to research the AI company's mission and recent developments. Understanding their vision will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their growth.
β¨Showcase Your M&A Experience
Given the emphasis on international M&A in the role, be prepared to discuss your past experiences in this area. Highlight specific deals you've led, the challenges faced, and how you successfully integrated acquired businesses.
β¨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
As a CFO, your financial expertise is crucial. Be ready to discuss your approach to financial planning, analysis, and reporting. Use examples to illustrate how you've driven performance visibility and scalability in previous roles.
β¨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating complex financial concepts in a clear and concise manner. Be prepared to explain how you've built trust with stakeholders and managed relationships with investors and external advisors.