At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and management in a dynamic SME environment.
- Company: Ambitious SME with a strong reputation for operational excellence near Oxford.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working model, and collaborative leadership team.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence strategic initiatives and develop the finance team.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing business while driving performance and profitability.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with senior finance leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Excellent opportunity for an experienced and forward-thinking SME Finance Director in Oxford.
A growing and ambitious SME based just outside Oxford, with a strong reputation for operational excellence, is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Finance Director to join the leadership team and play a key role in shaping the future of the business.
The Role
This is a pivotal hands-on leadership role that combines strategic financial direction with day-to-day financial management. You will take ownership of the finance function, partnering with senior stakeholders to drive performance, profitability, and sustainable growth. The successful candidate will bring both strategic insight and operational capability with the ability to operate effectively within a dynamic SME environment.
Responsibilities
- Act as a key member of the senior leadership team, contributing to overall business strategy
- Lead financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes
- Provide commercial insight and analysis to support decision-making and business growth
- Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies and cost optimisation
- Support long-term strategic initiatives including investment decisions and expansion plans
- Oversee all aspects of financial reporting, controls, and compliance
- Ensure accurate and timely monthly management accounts
- Manage cash flow, working capital, and banking relationships
- Lead on statutory accounts, audit processes, and tax compliance
- Develop and maintain robust financial systems and processes
- Take ownership of day-to-day finance operations within an SME structure
- Support and develop the finance team
- Work closely with operational departments to drive performance
- Implement financial controls and KPIs as well as carrying out system and process improvements
Who are we looking for
- A fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role (Financial Controller, Head of Finance, Finance Director) within an SME environment
- An understanding of the manufacturing sector would be an advantage
- Demonstrable experience of both strategic financial leadership and hands-on delivery
- Commercially astute with the ability to influence and challenge at senior level
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
- Proactive, adaptable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving business
What We Offer
- Competitive salary of £75,000–£100,000 (depending on experience)
- Hybrid working model
- Opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of a growing business
- Supportive and collaborative leadership team
Finance Director employer: WestonBrook Associates
Join a dynamic and ambitious SME just outside Oxford, where you will have the opportunity to shape the future of the business as a Finance Director. With a competitive salary and a hybrid working model, we foster a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth and operational excellence. This role not only offers strategic leadership but also the chance to make a tangible impact in a fast-paced environment, making it an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director
✨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 WestonBrook Associates. 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
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 WestonBrook Associates.
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 WestonBrook Associates'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 WestonBrook Associates
✨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 WestonBrook Associates.
✨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 WestonBrook Associates 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 WestonBrook Associates 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.
