At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance and operations for a dynamic international business in health and beauty.
- Company: Early-stage, privately owned company at the forefront of AI-enabled commerce.
- Benefits: Competitive executive compensation and flexible working location across the UK.
- Other info: Board-level role with significant influence and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape financial architecture and operational strategy in high-growth Asian markets.
- Qualifications: ACA qualified with senior-level finance experience in an international setting.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
We are an early-stage, privately owned international business operating at the intersection of health, beauty, AI-enabled commerce, and cross-border supply chains. Headquartered in the UK with established operations in Asia, the company enables consumer brands to access high-growth markets across China and South-East Asia, collectively valued at over £80 billion.
The business provides an end-to-end, omnichannel solution, managing everything from factory sourcing in Europe to distribution and consumer engagement in Asia. This includes cross-border e-commerce, general trade, digital retail, influencer marketing, and strategic partnerships with regional and national retailers. Quality, safety, regulatory compliance, and brand integrity are central to the company's proposition.
The Role
Reporting directly to the CEO this is a board-level appointment combining both Financial and Operational responsibilities. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the company's financial architecture and operational platform as it scales internationally. This role offers significant exposure to international markets, fundraising activity, and strategic decision-making within a high-growth environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Finance
- Lead and develop the group finance function across multiple legal entities
- Design and implement robust financial systems, controls, and governance frameworks
- Oversee accounting, administration, and statutory compliance for all group companies
- Prepare consolidated management accounts and statutory reporting
- Manage relationships with external accountants, auditors, tax advisers, banks, payroll and software providers
- Support fundraising, investor engagement, and financing activities alongside the Executive Chairman
- Plan and oversee the end-to-end international supply chain
- Select, contract, and manage third-party logistics providers and insurers
- Oversee supplier relationships in Europe and distributor/partner relationships in Asia
- Ensure operational compliance with corporate standards, regulatory requirements, and commercial objectives
- Work closely with regional Asian teams to align execution with group strategy
- Oversee ERP and operational information systems supporting supply chain and finance
Candidate Profile
- Essential
- ACA qualified (or equivalent professional qualification)
- Significant senior-level experience managing finance and accounting in an international environment
- Strong knowledge of corporate treasury, banking, and international financial systems
- Deep experience with management information systems, financial platforms, and ERP solutions
- Proven exposure to complex international supply chains
- Prior operational or financial responsibility within China and/or ASEAN markets
- Experience in consumer goods, health & beauty, FMCG, or cross-border e-commerce
- Board-level experience in a growth-stage or entrepreneurial environment
What's On Offer
- Executive leadership role with board influence
- Opportunity to help build and scale an international platform from a strong early-stage foundation
- Exposure to high-growth Asian consumer markets
- Competitive executive compensation package, aligned to experience and growth stage
- Location is flexible; anywhere in the UK.
All applicants must have an unrestricted right to work in the UK as our client will not support visa sponsorship for this role.
Finance & Operations DIrector in Burnley employer: Whats On In Chester
Contact Detail:
Whats On In Chester Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance & Operations DIrector in Burnley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the finance and operations sectors, especially those with experience in international markets. A personal introduction can make all the difference when you're aiming for a board-level role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their operations, financial strategies, and market positioning. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show how you can contribute to their growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience with international supply chains and financial systems during discussions. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate how you've successfully navigated similar challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance & Operations DIrector in Burnley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Finance & Operations Director. Highlight your experience in finance and operations, especially in international settings, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications like ACA.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've shaped financial architecture or managed complex supply chains in the past.
Showcase Your International Experience: Since we operate across Asia and the UK, it’s crucial to highlight any international experience you have. Talk about your familiarity with different markets, especially in China and South-East Asia, and how that can benefit us.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Whats On In Chester
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance & Operations Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the company and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles.
✨Understand the Market Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the health and beauty sectors, especially in Asia. Be prepared to talk about trends, challenges, and opportunities in these markets, as well as how your experience aligns with the company's goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role is board-level, so it's crucial to convey your leadership philosophy. Think of examples where you've successfully led teams through change or growth, particularly in international settings, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Expect questions about strategic decision-making and operational efficiency. Prepare to discuss how you've designed and implemented financial systems or managed supply chains, and how those experiences can benefit the company as it scales.