Chief Financial Officer

Harper May Ltd; City Of London; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A design-led retail brand in London seeks a commercially astute CFO to lead financial strategy through growth. The successful candidate will have extensive retail experience and proven finance leadership. Key responsibilities include developing financial strategies, overseeing capital planning and managing the finance team, while ensuring compliance with accounting standards.

Qualifications

• Extensive retail sector experience.
• Proven finance leadership in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong systems knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Drive financial strategy and long-term planning.
• Oversee investor communications and capital planning.
• Manage and grow the finance team.

Skills

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Financial modelling

Team leadership

Communication

Education

ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified

Job description

Overview

Our client is a design-led retail brand with a growing footprint both in-store and online. Known for their creative edge and commitment to customer experience, the business has carved out a strong position in a competitive market. They are seeking a commercially astute CFO to join the executive team and lead the financial strategy through this growth phase.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive the development of financial strategy and long-term planning aligned with commercial goals
• Lead investor communications and oversee capital planning, funding, and stakeholder engagement
• Manage and grow the finance team, embedding efficiency and performance-led culture
• Collaborate with senior leadership on growth initiatives, product development, and brand expansion
• Build and maintain scalable financial systems, controls, and reporting structures
• Own the budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management processes
• Provide actionable insights and performance analysis to support strategic decisions
• Oversee production of accurate financial reports and ensure full compliance with accounting standards
• Monitor tax exposure and ensure compliance with all statutory obligations

Key Requirements

• ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified or equivalent, with extensive retail sector experience
• Proven success in finance leadership within a fast-paced, brand-driven business
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate data into commercial insight
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management across all business levels
• Track record of leading and developing high-performing finance teams
• Experience in creative, consumer-facing sectors highly desirable
• Strong systems knowledge, financial modelling skills, and a hands-on approach