Head of Finance

My client runs a highly successful and expanding business with a turnover of £135m based in west London. I am looking for a high calibre, qualified accountant who will be the Head of Finance for this group of companies. The candidate must be highly motivated, a commercial thinker and be able to demonstrate high levels of initiative, accountability and leadership in taking overall control of the company’s accounting function.  This is the senior finance role in the business

You will lead and develop the finance team to ensure that company financial systems are robust, compliant and support current activities and future growth. You will also ensure that corporate budgeting processes are carried out and reviewed and you will take responsibility for the company cash management policies and controls ensuring that they are conducted in accordance with the company guidelines. You will produce statutory accounts and monthly management accounts and will ensure that the regulatory requirements of all statutory bodies are met. 

Ideally you will have a background that combines the disciplines of a larger company with the experience and understanding of the privately owned environment

The Role

The Head of Finance will play a key role in running the accounts function to ensure the effective operation of the function, whilst contributing to the financial and business direction of this company and supporting the company's ambitious plans for the future;

To become progressively aware of all functions of the business and take overall responsibility for operational accounting activities; to provide clear objective direction and support to the Board on matters relating to the financial and management accounting activities of the company

To ensure the efficient performance of accounting routines and controls. To direct and supervise activities in the accounting, administration and related functions. To ensure that the finance and accounting function is integrated into the business.

Produce cash flows, balance sheets, covenant calculations on a monthly and quarterly basis. Familiar with the financial requirements under LMA documents and other standard banking Loan facilities

To provide support in preparation of financial forecasts, budgets and cash flow forecasts; to assist in the development of longer term plans for the business and provide commercial input into those plans.

To supervise the preparation of annual statutory and monthly management accounts and to ensure that the information is clearly presented in terms that can be understood by non-financial managers and to compare the result to budget. To analyse and interpret the accounts and propose required courses of action

To ensure that the company's cash flows are re-forecast regularly and that the actual flows are compared to forecast on a period basis and to take action when variances occur.

Refine and monitor cost controls with reports to management on potential savings. Continuously up-date and improve department working methods and information produced.

Your ability to communicate across the business is as important as your technical ability and experience.

To undertake ad hoc projects from time to time, as and when necessary.

Candidate Specification

Candidates must be qualified accountants, ACA, ACCA or CIMA and will have proven experience of the following

• Strong academics required, preferably educated to degree level (preferable 2:1 or higher)
• 10 years + Finance experience within a medium to large multi-site Retail, FMCG or similar organisation. 10years + Supervisory experience & strong team & management skills.
• Knowledge of Sage 200 or a similar accounting system.
• PC literate, good advanced Excel skills & experience of Microsoft office.
• Strong financial modelling skills
• Management and leadership abilities

Skills and attributes

• High levels of reliability, diligence and accuracy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact with all levels of management and external relationships
• Strong commercial outlook.
• Analytical thinker.
• Proactive attitude with ability to challenge back.
• Self motivated individual who can demonstrate initiative.
• Flexible attitude and ability to work as part of a team in a continually changing business.
• Enjoys working to tight deadlines with high standards in an expanding business environment.
• Able to cope in a pressurised environment and make healthy decisions.
• Liaise with Senior Finance Managers and provide analysis and influence.
• Strong team player with 100%+ commitment.
• Exceptional communication skills at all levels
• Strong IT skills, always being ahead of new technologies
• Able to handle high levels of pressure and critical decision-making
• Supervision, development, direction and management of accounting and other relevant staff.