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- Tasks: Lead finance operations and build the finance function from scratch in a fast-growing startup.
- Company: Dynamic D2C healthcare startup backed by experienced founders and investors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, growth opportunities, and a chance to shape the finance strategy.
- Why this job: Be the first finance hire and make a real impact on the company's growth journey.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in management accounting and commercial finance.
- Other info: Join a small, ambitious leadership team in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Zanda is an executive search partner working exclusively with high-growth start-ups as they scale with senior and high-impact finance talent. We partner closely with VCs, Founders, CEOs and CFOs to deliver critical hires that support long-term growth.
We are supporting a fast-growing, well-funded D2C healthcare startup operating in a regulated, multi-site environment. Backed by experienced founders and investors, the business is scaling rapidly and investing in operational excellence, new site openings, and long-term growth. This is a pivotal stage in their journey as they professionalise core functions and put robust foundations in place to support the next phase of expansion. The successful candidate will join a small, ambitious leadership team that values clarity, ownership, and practical decision-making.
This is a rare opportunity to become the first dedicated finance hire, building and owning the finance function from the ground up. Initially, they are responsible for hands-on financial operations, working closely with an external accountancy partner while ensuring strong controls, processes, and financial visibility across the business. As the role develops, they will take on increasing responsibility for strategic finance, partnering closely with the COO (who retains overall ownership of long-term financial strategy) and supporting the CEO and operational leaders with insight and analysis.
Key responsibilities:- Owning Accounts Receivable, improving invoicing accuracy, reconciliation processes, and central oversight of third-party, charity, and insurer-related income.
- Leading Accounts Payable, including supplier management, batch payments, and improved forecasting and control of costs associated with new site builds.
- Overseeing payroll processes, ensuring efficiency, standardisation, and compliance with PAYE, pensions, and coordination with HR.
- Developing and improving financial models, forecasts, and budgets, and preparing clear board and leadership reporting.
- Managing cashflow, treasury, working capital, foreign exchange exposure, and debt planning.
- Overseeing monthly management accounts, year-end reporting, and preparation for audited accounts.
- Managing tax compliance and planning, including VAT, corporation tax, R&D claims, and capital allowances.
- Establishing procurement and purchasing frameworks, including supplier onboarding, contract management, and CAPEX and COGS controls.
- Building financial guardrails, reporting tools, and systems that enable operational teams to make informed decisions.
- Providing clear, actionable insight to improve clinical, operational, and commercial performance.
- A qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) with a strong focus on management accounting and commercial finance.
- Motivated by the challenge of being the first finance hire in a scaling business.
- Comfortable owning both core finance operations (invoicing, reconciliations, cashflow) and forward-looking work (budgets, forecasts, modelling).
- Operate independently while working closely with senior leadership.
- Thrive in fast-paced, high-growth environments and bring structure, clarity, and sound judgment to complex situations.
- Keen to develop into a strategic finance role while ensuring day-to-day operations run smoothly.
Head of Finance | D2C | Series A employer: Zanda
Contact Detail:
Zanda Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Finance | D2C | Series A
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the startup scene. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about sliding into DMs on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their mission, values, and recent developments. This will not only help you answer questions but also show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through real-life examples. When discussing your experience, relate it back to how you can add value to the finance function they’re building. Use metrics and achievements to back up your claims – numbers speak volumes!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Finance | D2C | Series A
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Finance. Highlight your experience in management accounting and commercial finance, and don’t forget to showcase any hands-on financial operations you've led.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about being the first finance hire in a scaling business. Share specific examples of how you've built financial functions from the ground up.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, emphasise your ability to develop financial models and forecasts. We want to see how you can provide actionable insights that improve operational performance, so don’t hold back on your achievements!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zanda
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the D2C sector and be ready to discuss how you've improved financial operations in previous roles. This shows you’re not just a number cruncher but someone who can drive strategic decisions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves building the finance function from scratch, highlight your experience in leading teams or projects. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed change or improved processes in past positions. This will show that you can thrive in a fast-paced environment and lead others effectively.
✨Understand the Business Model
Familiarise yourself with the healthcare D2C model and its unique challenges. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach financial planning and analysis in this context. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and understanding of the industry, which is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's growth plans, financial challenges, and how the finance function will support operational excellence. This not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the company aligns with your career goals.
