Head of Finance – Hybrid:

Cherry Professional; East Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job description

Job Title: Head of Finance
Location: Derby (Hybrid working available)
Department: Finance

About the Role
We are seeking a motivated and commercially minded Finance Manager/ Head of Finance to step into a dynamic, fast-paced environment where each day brings fresh and exciting challenges. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in driving financial performance across the business. You’ll be responsible for timely, accurate reporting, strategic business partnering, and leading the finance team in supporting continuous improvement and growth. You will work closely with senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams, this role offers ownership, visibility, and the chance to make a tangible impact. As no2 in finance you will support the Controller and deputise in their absence, giving you exposure to higher-level decision-making and leadership responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Deliver accurate daily, weekly, and monthly reporting and P&L to drive business insight and action.
2. Lead flash forecasting and financial performance reporting, including key KPIs.
3. Investigate financial variances and drive improvements in reporting accuracy and cost control.
4. Partner with operational and commercial teams to deliver on financial and performance goals.
5. Manage and mentor the finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and development.
6. Provide financial support and challenge for capital investment projects, including full post-implementation reviews.
7. Build strong cross-functional relationships to enhance collaboration and business outcomes.
8. Prepare regular and ad-hoc financial analysis and board-level presentations.
9. Monitor cashflow and working capital, ensuring robust financial control and forecasting.
10. Lead the full budget and forecasting process, including P&L, Balance Sheet, and Cashflow.
11. Support product costing and influence commercial decisions, including new launches.
12. Lead the team, conduct regular 1:1s with direct reports to drive team performance.
13. Act as deputy to the Controller during periods of absence.
14. Ad hoc tasks, reporting and business-critical projects as needed.

About You

1. Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, or ICAEW).
2. Strong experience in a manufacturing, FMCG and operational finance.
3. Enjoys working in a fast-moving business and thrives on new challenges.
4. Excellent communicator with the confidence to engage, question and provide appropriate challenge across the organisation.
5. Proven ability to manage, coach, and develop people.
6. Technically strong with a solid understanding of financial and operational processes.
7. Organised and detail-oriented able to prioritise effectively in a fast moving environment.
8. Self-motivated, proactive, and comfortable challenging the status quo to drive improvements.
9. Strong Microsoft Excel and financial systems skills.

Why Join?
If you’re looking for a role that will challenge, excite, and stretch your skills, this is it. You’ll join a business that operates at pace, values your input and offers real scope to make your mark. They are evolving and are looking for someone who can implement change and continuous improvement. Whist enjoying leading others and who’ll foster a collaborative culture with strong team spirit.

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