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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the financial future of a high-growth advertising agency and drive strategic initiatives.
- Company: Dynamic independent advertising agency with a global presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary package and the chance to influence company direction.
- Other info: Opportunity to build a high-performing finance function and prepare for investment.
- Why this job: Be the first CFO and make a real impact in a creative environment.
- Qualifications: Experienced finance leader with strong commercial acumen and executive-level influence.
A high-growth, independent advertising agency is hiring its first Chief Financial Officer. With operations across multiple international markets and strong momentum, the business is entering its next phase of scale.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the financial future of a creatively driven organisation while building the infrastructure, discipline, and strategic capability required for long-term value creation and potential external investment.
The Role
As a core member of the executive leadership team, the CFO will partner closely with the CEO and COO to align financial strategy with commercial and operational delivery. You will bring clarity, structure, and insight to a fast-paced, project-based business—balancing creative ambition with financial discipline.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and deliver global financial strategy aligned to growth objectives
- Drive profitability, margin improvement, and cash performance
- Partner with the COO on forecasting, resourcing, and operational efficiency
- Lead commercial decision-making across pricing, utilisation, and client profitability
- Oversee cash flow, capital allocation, and financial risk
- Support and lead M&A activity and future investment readiness
- Build and scale a high-performing global finance function
- Implement robust reporting, controls, and performance frameworks
Candidate Profile
- Experienced finance leader within a multi-region, service-based or project-led business
- Strong commercial acumen and track record of driving performance
- Experience operating at executive level and influencing senior stakeholders
- Exposure to M&A, investor relations, or private equity environments
- Ability to thrive in a creative, entrepreneurial culture
- Collaborative, hands-on, and execution-focused
Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent
Why This Role?
- First CFO hire with genuine strategic influence
- High-growth, independent business with global footprint
- Opportunity to shape systems, strategy, and team from the ground up
- Clear pathway toward investment readiness and value creation
Chief Financial Officer in London employer: Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the advertising and finance sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their financial strategies and recent projects. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in shaping their financial future.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've influenced senior stakeholders and driven performance in previous roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to thrive in a creative, entrepreneurial culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that CFO role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and shaping the future of the business.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of CFO. Highlight your experience in financial strategy, M&A, and working in a creative environment. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this high-growth agency. Share your vision for shaping financial strategies and how you can drive profitability while supporting creativity.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a core member of our executive team, we need someone who can influence and lead. Make sure to highlight your experience in leading finance functions and collaborating with senior stakeholders in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a CFO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the advertising industry, such as profitability margins and cash flow management. Be ready to discuss how you've driven performance in previous roles.
✨Align with the Creative Vision
This role requires balancing financial discipline with creative ambition. Familiarise yourself with the agency's recent campaigns and be prepared to discuss how you can support their creative goals while ensuring financial sustainability.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a core member of the executive team, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've influenced senior stakeholders and led teams in a collaborative environment. Highlight your hands-on approach and ability to thrive in a fast-paced setting.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect to engage in conversations about global financial strategy and M&A activities. Think about how you would approach these topics and be ready to share your insights on capital allocation and risk management, showcasing your strategic mindset.