Chief Financial Officer

Harper May Ltd; London; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

An ambitious media company is seeking a dynamic Chief Financial Officer to lead its finance function through a significant growth phase, including a planned IPO. This role requires a commercially driven leader to shape financial strategy, build scalable infrastructure, and ensure readiness for public markets. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in high-growth environments, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to manage complex financial operations. Join a forward-thinking organization where your expertise will drive business performance and expansion.

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualified experience in finance leadership roles.
• Direct experience of IPO processes and corporate governance.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial strategy and planning for the company’s growth.
• Prepare for IPO, ensuring compliance and investor readiness.
• Develop and mentor a high-performing finance team.

Skills

Financial Strategy

IPO Preparation

Corporate Finance

Risk Management

Stakeholder Management

Leadership

Education

ACA / ACCA / CIMA Qualification

Job description

Harper May is partnering with an ambitious media company that is seeking a dynamic Chief Financial Officer to lead the finance function through its next phase of growth, including a planned IPO. With a strong brand presence and expanding global reach, the business requires a commercially driven and strategically minded finance leader to guide it through the demands of scaling and public market readiness.

Role Overview:
The CFO will be a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for shaping financial strategy, building a scalable finance infrastructure, and ensuring the company is fully prepared for a successful IPO. The role will combine operational leadership with strategic oversight, providing critical financial insight to drive business performance and future expansion.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the financial strategy and planning process, ensuring alignment with the company’s long-term growth objectives

• Prepare and deliver all financial elements required for a successful IPO, including financial reporting, governance frameworks, and investor readiness

• Oversee corporate finance activities including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and risk management

• Manage relationships with external advisors, auditors, investment banks, and legal counsel throughout the IPO process

• Build and enhance financial controls, compliance frameworks, and reporting standards suitable for a public company environment

• Drive commercial decision-making across the business, providing financial analysis and strategic insights to the Board and leadership team

• Develop and mentor a high-performing finance team capable of supporting a listed business

• Oversee ongoing investor relations post-IPO, including financial reporting, market communications, and regulatory compliance

Key Requirements:

• ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified with significant post-qualified experience

• Proven track record as a CFO or senior finance leader within high-growth media, entertainment, or creative industries

• Direct experience of taking a company through an IPO or significant public market transaction

• Strong understanding of corporate governance, financial controls, and public reporting requirements

• Excellent leadership and stakeholder management skills, with experience operating at Board level

• Commercially minded with a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of scaling businesses

• Exceptional communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships with investors, advisors, and internal teams