At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Core Finance team, manage financial reporting, and prepare for IPO readiness.
- Company: Join Stream, a fintech with a mission to improve financial wellbeing for everyday workers.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with direct exposure to the CFO and Board.
- Why this job: Be part of a pivotal moment in a growing company with a social conscience.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance leadership, strong understanding of financial reporting and compliance.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 132000 £ per year.
The Company: Stream was founded with the mission to provide fair financial tools to the everyday worker. Offered through destination employers like Greene King, Bupa, Burger King, Asda and the NHS, our award-winning platform helps over three million people to earn, learn, save, spend and borrow on their own terms, all in one smartphone app. Stream is unique: VC backed and growing at scale, but with a social conscience. Some of the world's leading impact funds were our founding investors, and we operate on a social charter, which means every product and service we create must measurably improve financial wellbeing. You’d be joining a team of over 300 passionate, ambitious people across Europe and the USA, building a category-defining product, and united by that same mission.
The Opportunity: Stream’s finance function is split into two closely-connected teams: Strategic Finance (FP&A, treasury and debt facility management) and Core Finance (transactional accounting, financial statements, tax, and finance systems). This role leads Core Finance, reports directly to the CFO, and works hand-in-glove with Strategic Finance so the business has one coherent, trustworthy view of its numbers. This is a pivotal moment to join. Stream is preparing for a future IPO, which means a step-change in the speed, rigour and auditability of our reporting, systems and controls. We’re also likely to complete a transformational acquisition within the next eighteen months, and this role will lead the finance integration of that business into Stream. It’s a rare opportunity to build the reporting and control backbone of a scaling fintech, with direct exposure to the CFO, the Board, advisors and our external auditors.
The Team: The Finance Director reports to the CFO and has two direct reports – the Group Reporting Manager and the Financial Controller. Together with the wider Core Finance team, this role owns transactional accounting, group financial statements, tax and finance systems, working closely with the Strategic Finance team (FP&A, treasury and debt) so that Core and Strategic Finance operate as one function.
What will you be doing?
- Leading Core Finance - Lead, manage and develop the Core Finance team, with direct line management of the Group Reporting Manager and Financial Controller, building a team capable of supporting a listed business.
- Own the overall Core Finance roadmap, balancing business-as-usual delivery with the step-change required for IPO readiness and M&A integration.
- Act as deputy to the CFO on financial reporting and control matters, including representing Core Finance with the Board, Audit Committee and external auditors as required.
- Financial reporting, control and statutory compliance.
- Own the group month-end close and consolidation process across UK and US entities, driving towards a faster, more automated close in line with public company reporting timelines.
- Oversee preparation of monthly management accounts and review of balance sheet reconciliations, ensuring accuracy, completeness and a clear audit trail.
- Take full ownership of the statutory audit for the Group and its subsidiaries, managing the auditor relationship and ensuring clean, timely sign-off.
- Ensure technical accounting compliance under UK GAAP/IFRS (and US GAAP as relevant), keeping the group’s accounting policies current as standards evolve.
- Own preparation and submission of FCA regulatory returns for Stream’s regulated entities.
IPO readiness - Lead the uplift of financial reporting, systems and controls needed to prepare Stream for a future listing, including tightening the close timetable, strengthening the internal controls framework, and improving documentation and audit trail. Partner with the CFO on IPO readiness workstreams, including technical accounting positions, listing requirements, and building institutional-grade reporting processes and governance. Assess and upgrade the finance systems architecture (including NetSuite and related tools) to support multi-entity consolidation, scale and public company reporting requirements.
M&A integration - Play a leading finance role in Stream’s planned M&A activity, including financial due diligence support, opening balance sheet and completion accounts work. Design and lead the integration of acquired entities’ finance processes, systems, controls and people into Stream’s Core Finance function. Standardise accounting policies, chart of accounts and controls across the enlarged group post-acquisition.
Tax and regulatory compliance - Oversee UK and international tax compliance, including VAT and other indirect tax returns, corporation tax.
Finance Director London employer: Wagestream
Stream is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises financial wellbeing and social impact. With a hybrid working model in the heart of London, employees enjoy generous benefits including 25 days of annual leave, private healthcare, and opportunities for personal growth through volunteering and sabbaticals. Joining Stream means being part of a passionate team dedicated to making a difference, while also having access to a range of tailored benefits that enhance both professional and personal life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
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.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Wagestream. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director London
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 Wagestream.
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 Wagestream'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 Wagestream
✨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 Wagestream.
✨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 Wagestream 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 Wagestream 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.
