At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function and support strategic projects during a transition period.
- Company: Privately owned heavy industrial services business with a strong balance sheet.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential for extension or permanent role, and impactful leadership experience.
- Other info: Opportunity to develop and support a finance team while managing key external stakeholders.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance in a dynamic SME environment and drive meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Previous Finance Director experience in an SME and strong commercial finance skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Company
Stanton House is partnering with a privately owned heavy industrial services business to appoint an Interim Finance Director.
The organisation operates across multiple specialist divisions, delivering essential services across the UK.
An SME sub £100m with a strong balance sheet, the business is entering a period of transition and is seeking an experienced finance leader to provide stability, support key strategic projects and partner closely with the owners and senior leadership team.
Following recent leadership changes, there is a need for an experienced and commercially minded finance professional who can drive change, improve decision making and support the business through its next phase.
Role
This is a hands-on interim leadership opportunity for an experienced Finance Director who is comfortable operating within an SME environment and working closely with business owners.
Reporting directly to the SLT and leading the finance function, you will provide continuity following the departure of the current Finance Director while delivering several critical strategic projects.
The successful candidate will act as a trusted adviser to the ownership team, supporting both financial and operational decision making.
You will play a key role in shaping the future operating model of finance, strengthening governance and ensuring the business continues to perform effectively during a period of change.
This assignment is expected to run for an initial six months, with potential for extension or a permanent appointment.
Responsibilities
- Provide leadership and stability to the finance function during a period of transition.
- Partner closely with founders and senior leaders to support strategic and operational decision making.
- Lead the review and implementation of a revised shareholder agreement.
- Support the design and implementation of the future target operating model for the finance function.
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management and working capital performance.
- Deliver insightful management information and board reporting to support decision making.
- Strengthen financial controls, governance processes and reporting frameworks.
- Drive business partnering across multiple operational divisions, supporting commercial performance and project delivery.
- Manage key external stakeholders including banks, auditors, lenders and advisers.
- Develop and support the existing finance team, including the Head of Finance and wider finance staff.
- Support project-based initiatives including process improvement, cost analysis, contract review and commercial governance.
Requirements
Essential
- Previous Finance Director or equivalent leadership experience within an SME environment.
- Strong heavy industrial background from either infrastructure, construction, manufacturing or engineering.
- Experience leading finance functions through periods of change, transformation or transition.
- Strong commercial and operational finance capability, including budgeting, forecasting and cash flow management.
- Experience developing finance processes, controls, governance and reporting frameworks.
- Track record of leading and developing finance teams.
- Ability to work closely with operational stakeholders and provide practical, commercially focused financial support.
Desirable
- Experience supporting shareholder, corporate governance or ownership structure projects.
- Background in contract-led businesses with strong project accounting requirements.
- Previous experience operating within privately owned businesses.
- Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, ACMA or equivalent).
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Interim Finance Director in Guildford employer: Stanton House
Stanton House is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, where your analytical skills will directly contribute to impactful business decisions. Located in vibrant West London, we offer a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive team environment. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values your insights and empowers you to make a real difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Finance Director in Guildford
✨Tap into Campus Networks
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
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We think you need these skills to ace Interim Finance Director in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Stanton House.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Stanton House's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stanton House
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Stanton House.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Stanton House will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Stanton House employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
