At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a finance team, manage financial operations, and oversee strategic financial planning.
- Company: Local service provider undergoing exciting restructuring.
- Benefits: Flexible working options and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and help shape the future of the organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy and support business growth.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified with extensive experience in finance leadership roles.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Our client is a local service provider who is going through a restructure and are now looking to introduce a Head of Finance to the department. This role is office based in Southend-On-Sea but could be flexible for the right candidate. This is to oversee a team of 7 and handle acquisitions, onboarding and the general strategy for the department to report up to the board. The ideal candidate is fully qualified with several years of experience in a similar role.
Main Purpose of the Role
- Act as the senior finance lead, ensuring the organisation's financial position is effectively monitored, reported, and that risks and opportunities are identified promptly.
- Lead and coordinate the preparation of the annual statutory accounts.
- Support the development of the business plan and translate strategic objectives into a clear financial plan for service delivery.
- Manage the finance team to ensure effective financial operations, including managed accounts and payroll services delivered in line with contractual requirements.
- Work closely with senior leadership to embed strong financial management, governance, and commercial awareness across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee monthly financial monitoring across the organisation and any associated subsidiary entities, reporting budget variances and providing analysis of key drivers.
- Prepare financial reports for senior leadership and board-level meetings, including presenting financial performance information.
- Maintain and update the annual financial business plan, reflecting emerging opportunities, service changes, and identified risks.
- Provide financial input into service development, contractual arrangements, and operational changes, ensuring financial implications are fully assessed.
- Lead, manage, and develop the finance team in line with organisational policies and procedures.
- Prepare statutory financial statements, including profit and loss accounts and balance sheets.
- Undertake financial modelling for current operations and future business opportunities, ensuring robust assessment of risks and opportunities.
- Support business growth initiatives, including development of new services, income streams, and commercial opportunities.
- Provide financial input into tender submissions and business proposals.
- Support the establishment and financial governance of subsidiary entities where required.
- Oversee finance systems and ensure effective coordination of back-office financial processes, including cash management, VAT, and banking processes.
- Lead the production and submission of year-end accounts, including audit preparation and statutory filings.
- Act as the main point of contact for external auditors and coordinate the annual external audit process.
- Develop and oversee internal audit processes and act as a key liaison for internal assurance activities.
- Continuously review and improve financial reporting, controls, and systems.
- Ensure financial procedures, policies, and governance frameworks remain current and compliant with relevant regulations.
- Coordinate required statutory and regulatory reporting.
- Build effective working relationships with commissioners, partners, and key stakeholders.
- Develop a financial infrastructure that supports ongoing growth and commercial development.
- Support implementation and oversight of payroll-related financial services.
- Contribute to the overall strategic aims of the organisation and uphold its values and behaviours.
Head of Finance employer: XENIAL CONSULTING LTD
As a local service provider in Southend-On-Sea, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment that empowers our employees to thrive. With a focus on professional development, our Head of Finance will lead a dedicated team while enjoying flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to shape the financial strategy of the organisation. We are committed to providing meaningful employment with competitive benefits and a culture that values innovation and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head of Finance role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed teams and handled financial strategies in the past. We want to see that you can lead with confidence!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for openings that match your expertise, especially in organisations looking for strong financial leadership.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Share any additional insights or thoughts you had about the role, showing your enthusiasm and commitment to the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Finance role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in financial management and team leadership. We want to see how your skills align 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 role. Share specific examples of your achievements in finance and how you can contribute to our client's success.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves managing a team, be sure to highlight your leadership experience. Talk about how you've developed teams in the past and how you plan to lead the finance department effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at XENIAL CONSULTING LTD
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of how you've managed budgets, reported variances, and identified financial opportunities.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a team, so be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Think of specific instances where you’ve developed your team or improved financial operations. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and embed strong financial governance across an organisation.
✨Understand the Business Strategy
Familiarise yourself with the company’s current business strategy and how finance plays a role in it. Be ready to discuss how you can translate strategic objectives into a clear financial plan. This shows that you’re not just a numbers person but also a strategic thinker.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially around risk management and financial modelling. Prepare to discuss how you would handle potential financial challenges or opportunities within the organisation. Use real-life examples to illustrate your thought process.
