Head of Finance | Services | Series

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 Services startup operating in a 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.

• 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.