Commercial Finance Director

We are seeking a strategic and operational Commercial Finance Director to play a critical role at the core of a dynamic retail business. Reporting to the CFO and partnering with the Retail General Managers, this role takes full ownership of the financial performance of the business. The FD will analyze financial data, provide actionable insights to the GMs, and implement strategies to drive profitability.

Significant experience in retail is essential for success in this role.

The ideal candidate will possess exceptional commercial acumen and a deep understanding of the retail sector. This is a hands-on, operational leadership role focused on supporting retail divisions, guiding departmental budget planning, and embedding robust financial systems. Please note: this is a purely commercial and retail-focused position; there is also a separate Director of Accounting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting processes.
• Conduct IRR analysis and feasibility studies for new retail ventures or brand acquisitions, supporting decision-making for the COO.
• Collaborate with GMs on stock and merchandise planning for each brand.
• Manage and lead a team of qualified Finance Business Partners and Analysts.
• Own the business plan and budget, ensuring targets are met through expenditure management, variance analysis, and financial reporting.
• Conduct margin analysis and provide pricing recommendations.
• Oversee inventory and stock turnover to maintain optimal stock levels throughout the seasons.
• Ensure effective financial control and accuracy across all business units.
• Prepare management reports and performance reviews, offering actionable insights to senior stakeholders.
• Advise on cash flow management, cost controls, and departmental expenses, identifying opportunities and addressing weaknesses.
• Provide business intelligence to support decision-making and challenge assumptions when necessary.
• Evaluate investments, capital expenditures, and projects, delivering clear recommendations.
• Analyze external factors, such as mall performance, to support sales growth and profitability.
• Develop and track KPIs to measure business performance and drive improvements.
• Offer ad hoc analysis, modeling, and scenario planning for operational challenges.
• Ensure accurate and timely MIS reporting using tools like SAP and Power BI, with detailed variance analysis.

Requirements

• At least 5 years experience at Finance Director level, leading commercial finance teams in retail.
• Strong personality.
• Extensive retail experience, ideally with exposure to managing multiple well-known brands.
• Professional qualifications (CFA, CPA, CMA, or CA) are preferable.

If you have the strategic mindset and operational expertise to lead in a fast-paced retail environment, we'd love to hear from you.