Head of Finance

Salary: £80,000 - £90,000 per annum + Car Allowance + Performance Bonus

Our client is a leading UK manufacturer operating within the fire safety sector, delivering innovative, life-saving solutions to some of the country’s most prestigious residential and commercial developments. With ambitious growth plans, a strong reputation for quality and an entrepreneurial culture, the business is entering an exciting new phase of its journey.

They are now looking for a commercially minded Head of Finance to join the Senior Leadership Team.

This isn’t a role for someone looking to simply oversee month-end and keep the wheels turning. Our client is seeking someone who wants to become an integral part of the leadership team, helping to shape the future direction of the business and build a finance function that supports sustainable, profitable growth.

This is a rare chance to join a successful, privately owned SME at a pivotal point in its growth.

Working closely with the Managing Director and Senior Leadership Team, you will provide commercial insight, challenge decision making, improve financial visibility and help steer the business through its next stage of organic growth.

This role will suit someone who enjoys rolling up their sleeves when needed but is equally comfortable sitting around the board table discussing strategy, investment opportunities and long-term business performance.

As Head of Finance, you will have the opportunity to leave your mark by developing systems, improving reporting, strengthening controls and ensuring the finance function evolves alongside the business.

• Leading month-end reporting and production of insightful management accounts
• Delivering meaningful commercial analysis to support strategic decision making
• Owning budgeting, forecasting and long-term financial planning
• Managing cash flow, banking relationships and financial risk
• Partnering with Operations, Sales, Innovation and Marketing to improve profitability and performance
• Developing financial reporting, KPIs and business intelligence
• Leading and developing the Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable team
• Supporting investment decisions and helping guide the company’s continued growth
• Acting as a trusted adviser to the Managing Director and Shareholders

We are looking for someone who has already experienced the pace, variety and opportunity that comes with working in a growing SME.

• ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification (or be nearing completion)
• Experience in a growing SME, owner-managed or entrepreneurial business
• A hands-on approach with the ability to switch effortlessly between operational detail and strategic thinking
• Strong commercial acumen and the confidence to challenge, influence and support senior stakeholders
• Excellent management accounting, budgeting and forecasting experience
• Advanced Excel skills and strong ERP systems knowledge
• Power BI experience
• Experience with in manufacturing, engineering or construction would be advantageous

Most importantly, you will be someone who enjoys building, improving and growing a business—not simply maintaining one.

• Performance-related bonus
• Opportunity to influence business strategy and growth
• Based in Cranleigh, Surrey