Finance Director

This is an innovative and rapidly growing whisky business dedicated to crafting bold, high-quality spirits that challenge conventions. With a focus on exceptional cask selection, creative branding, and international distribution, they are building a global reputation for excellence in whisky making. As they expand, they are seeking a strategic and commercially minded Finance Director to lead their financial operations and drive sustainable growth.

The Role

As Finance Director, you will play a critical role in shaping the financial strategy. You will be responsible for overseeing all financial operations, ensuring financial health, and supporting the executive team with data-driven decision-making. This is a hands-on role in a dynamic environment, requiring a blend of strategic vision and operational expertise.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Leadership
• Develop and implement financial strategies to support business growth and profitability.
• Provide financial insights and analysis to the CEO and leadership team to inform strategic decisions.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Identify and mitigate financial risks while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and industry standards.

Financial Operations & Control
• Oversee financial reporting, ensuring accurate and timely management accounts, P&L statements, and cash flow reports.
• Implement and maintain strong financial controls and processes to safeguard company assets.
• Manage tax, treasury, and compliance matters, working closely with external auditors and advisors.
• Drive efficiencies in financial operations, including inventory management, cost control, and working capital optimisation.

Commercial & Business Partnering
• Support commercial decision-making, including pricing strategies, investment opportunities, and contract negotiations.
• Partner with sales, marketing, and operations teams to evaluate financial performance and improve profitability.
• Analyse market trends and financial data to identify growth opportunities and potential risks.

Investment & Funding
• Manage relationships with banks, investors, and funding partners to secure capital for expansion.
• Evaluate investment opportunities, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships.
• Drive financial modelling for new product launches, export market expansion, and capital projects.

What We're Looking For
• Proven experience in a senior finance role, ideally within the drinks industry, FMCG, or a high-growth business.
• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience.
• Strong knowledge of financial management, corporate finance, and regulatory compliance.
• A commercial mindset with experience in pricing, profitability analysis, and business strategy.
• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to influence and challenge at all levels.
• Experience working in an SME or fast-paced entrepreneurial environment is highly desirable.
• Passion for whisky and the spirits industry is a plus!

What We Offer
• A key leadership role in an exciting and ambitious whisky business.
• The opportunity to shape the financial future of a growing brand.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• A creative and collaborative work environment with a team that values innovation and craftsmanship.