At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and governance for a respected logistics company.
- Company: Join McPherson, a family-owned business at the heart of Scotland's whisky industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to shape the future of the company.
- Why this job: Be part of a pivotal leadership role in a well-established family business.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance, ideally within drinks or logistics sectors.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence strategic decisions and support ambitious growth.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
McPherson is a highly respected fourth-generation family-owned transport and logistics business headquartered in Speyside, at the heart of Scotland’s whisky industry. Established in 1945, the company has built an outstanding reputation as a trusted logistics partner to global drinks groups, independent distillers and a diversified customer base across the UK. The business today operates at scale, with more than 400 employees, a fleet of over 200 HGVs and significant warehousing capability supporting complex supply chains across the spirits sector and beyond.
About the role
This appointment represents a pivotal moment in the Group’s development as the next generation of the McPherson family assume increasing leadership responsibility and the business continues to evolve its governance, systems and commercial capabilities. Reporting to the Managing Director and working closely with the Board, the Finance Director will take full responsibility for financial leadership across the Group. The role extends well beyond financial stewardship and will play a central part in shaping strategic direction, strengthening commercial insight and supporting key investment decisions.
Key responsibilities
- Leading financial control, reporting, governance and banking relationships across the Group
- Developing deeper commercial insight across customer profitability, route economics and cost discipline
- Supporting major capital investment decisions including fleet strategy and warehousing developments
- Strengthening FP&A capability and enhancing management information for the Board
- Supporting potential acquisitions and longer-term strategic growth opportunities
- Leading and developing the finance function while supporting wider operational decision-making
Candidate requirements
We are seeking a commercially minded finance leader with strong operational instincts and the ability to operate at the centre of a complex, asset-intensive business. Experience within the drinks industry or within logistics, transport, distribution, infrastructure, engineering services or similarly operational environments would be highly relevant. Equally important will be the ability to operate effectively within a long-established family business — bringing rigour, insight and challenge while maintaining the pragmatic and collaborative culture that has underpinned McPherson’s success for generations. This is a rare opportunity to join a well‑financed, respected Scottish business at an important stage in its leadership evolution and ambitious future growth.
Finance Director in Scotland employer: UK Agri-Tech Centre
Contact Detail:
UK Agri-Tech Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director in Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and logistics sectors. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups to get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching McPherson and its role in the drinks industry. We want you to show off your knowledge about their operations and how you can contribute to their growth. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role. We love seeing candidates who are proactive!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We’ve made it easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the McPherson family. Let’s get you that Finance Director role!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Finance Director role. Highlight your experience in financial leadership, especially in logistics or the drinks industry, and showcase how you've contributed to strategic growth in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for McPherson. Mention your understanding of family business dynamics and how you can bring insight and challenge while maintaining their collaborative culture.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on achievements that align with the key responsibilities listed in the job description. Whether it's leading financial control or supporting major capital investments, make those experiences pop!
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 regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Agri-Tech Centre
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to McPherson's operations, such as customer profitability and route economics. Be ready to discuss how you've used these insights in past roles to drive strategic decisions.
✨Understand the Business
Familiarise yourself with McPherson's history and its position within the drinks and logistics sectors. Knowing their key clients and challenges will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the company’s future.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role is about more than just numbers; it's about leading a team and influencing the Board. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led finance functions or cross-departmental initiatives in the past, especially in complex environments.
✨Cultural Fit Matters
McPherson is a family-owned business with a collaborative culture. Think about how your values align with theirs and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to maintaining that culture while bringing in fresh perspectives and rigour.