Interim Head of Finance

This is an exciting opportunity to conduct some project and transformation work for a successful business that has recently been acquired by an international group. Operating in the retail and distribution sector they have enjoyed steady growth across all product categories and with the support of a closely aligned parent company they are now in a strong position to create synergies and leverage expansion opportunities across Europe and the US.

This new role is offered on an interim basis, initially circa 3-6 months to bridge a short-term gap and lead a defined set of finance projects while they decide whether to recruit permanently. This is a part-time engagement (around 3 days per week) with an immediate start. The role will work closely with the Group CFO at the parent company and the site MD to drive structural improvement and provide stability during a period of transition.

Key objectives will be:
Lead a defined programme of finance improvement and transformation projects, focused on the quality and reliability of financial information. Modernise financial systems and processes, and prepare them for closer integration within parent group reporting. Strengthen monthly management accounts and reporting the leadership team relies on to make decisions. Provide oversight of international tax, VAT and import duties across key markets (UK, EU, US, AU).

Support and steady the existing finance team through the handover period, working alongside them rather than taking over day-to-day operations. Document the work and leave each project in a clean state for the incoming permanent Head of Finance. Essential skills and experience:
Ideally ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified, with experience at a similar level. An experienced interim who can start at short notice and add value quickly in an unfamiliar business. A track record of delivering finance systems and process improvement projects through to completion, ideally in e-commerce or D2C. Hands-on in a small finance team and comfortable working erience with finance and accounting systems (Sage or similar), and automating processes.

Strong commercial and analytical thinking, a clear communicator with non-finance colleagues. Working knowledge of global tax regulations (EU, US, AU) an advantage. Engagement terms:
Fixed-term interim, approximately 3 days per week, immediate start. Expected duration to be confirmed, bridging until a permanent Head of Finance is appointed. Day rate, to be agreed. Hybrid, with presence at the Burnley site as the projects require. If you're an interim finance specialist who likes getting structural projects landed quickly and cleanly, please get in touch!