Financial Director

JR United Kingdom; Preston; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic provider of children's residential care in Lancashire is seeking a Finance Director. This role involves shaping the financial strategy during a critical growth phase, collaborating with private equity partners, and leading a finance team. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in senior financial roles, strong leadership skills, and a proactive approach to financial management.

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualification experience in a senior financial role.
• Experience in a growing SME or similar people-focused industry.
• Experience with private equity-backed businesses (not essential).

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute financial strategy to support business growth.
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling processes.
• Build and mentor a high-performing finance team.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Analytical Acumen

Communication Skills

Education

ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent

Job description

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Sowena Group has been retained by a dynamic and rapidly expanding provider of children's residential care group in Lancashire with a search for a new Finance Director. My client specialises in supporting young people with complex needs and is just about to embark on an exciting journey with private equity investment.

Role Overview

As Finance Director, you will play a critical role in shaping the financial strategy of the group during a pivotal phase of growth and transformation. This is a hands-on position, working closely with an exceptional entrepreneur, the new PE house and the senior leadership team to lead the business from the start of a private equity cycle to a successful exit. Your expertise will be instrumental in driving financial performance, operational efficiency, and strategic decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Financial Leadership: Develop and execute the financial strategy to support business growth, profitability, and sustainability.
• Financial Planning & Analysis: Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling processes to inform strategic decisions.
• Operational Oversight: Implement robust financial controls and systems to ensure accuracy and efficiency in financial operations.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with private equity partners, auditors, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment with business objectives.
• Risk Management: Identify financial risks and develop mitigation strategies to safeguard the company's assets.
• Team Development: Build and mentor a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Exit Strategy Preparation: Prepare the business for a successful exit by optimizing financial performance and ensuring readiness for due diligence processes.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Professional Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent with significant post-qualification experience.
• SME Experience: Proven experience in a senior financial role within the a growing SME or a similar people-focused industry.
• Private Equity Exposure: Experience working with private equity-backed businesses and understanding of the dynamics involved in the investment cycle (not essential)
• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership capabilities with a track record of building and leading effective finance teams.
• Analytical Acumen: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
• Cultural Fit: A hands-on, proactive approach with a commitment to the values of care, integrity, and collaboration.

Package - £90k - £120k + bonus + equity (flexible on package based on experience)

This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing, purpose-driven organisation. As Finance Director, you will be at the forefront of shaping the financial future of group, leading the business through a critical phase of growth and transformation. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for making a difference, then please reach out to Perran Cooke at Sowena Group.