Chief Financial Officer

Harper May Ltd; City Of London; On-site; GBP 130,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A design-led retail brand in London is seeking a commercially astute CFO to lead the financial strategy during a period of growth. The role requires extensive retail experience, ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualification, and a strong track record in finance leadership. Responsibilities include developing financial strategies, overseeing capital planning, and managing the finance team. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and excellent stakeholder management abilities.

Qualifications

• Extensive retail sector experience.
• Proven success in finance leadership.
• Strong systems knowledge and financial modelling skills.

Responsibilities

• Drive the development of financial strategy and long-term planning.
• Lead investor communications and oversee capital planning.
• Manage and grow the finance team.

Skills

Commercial acumen

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Financial modelling

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