Head of Commercial Finance

Lord Accounting & Finance; London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Clinical Research Organisation in London is looking for a Commercial Finance Lead to provide strategic financial guidance across various business units. The ideal candidate will have ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualifications, significant experience in a CRO environment, and strong stakeholder management skills. This role involves leading a talented team, influencing key operational decisions, and contributing to long-term financial strategies.

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualified experience in commercial finance leadership.
• Experience working within a CRO is essential.
• Background in private equity environments is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Provide commercial finance leadership across multiple business units.
• Act as a business partner influencing decisions and financial performance.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team.

Skills

Stakeholder management skills

Financial modelling

Data analysis capabilities

Excellent communication

Education

ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualification

Job description

The Company

Our client is a well-respected, PE-backed Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) with its head office based in London. They provide professional services to the pharmaceutical industry delivering high quality statistics and programming for clinical trials. Experiencing dramatic growth over recent years, they have developed an outstanding reputation in the international market.

The Role

Reporting directly to the CFO, this is a key appointment providing commercial finance leadership across a portfolio of business units and working closely with operational leaders and the executive team to shape commercial outcomes. You will act as a true business partner owning financial performance, influencing key decisions, and ensuring finance is embedded into every aspect of operational and commercial strategy. This role is suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment and is passionate about using finance to unlock value and drive strategic growth.

Beyond the numbers, you will lead and develop a small, high-performing team, nurturing talent and setting a strong example of leadership, integrity, and accountability. You will be a sounding board to the CFO and wider Executive, providing clear, commercially grounded financial advice and contributing to long-term planning and investment decisions.

The Person

ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with significant post-qualified experience, you will possess excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and challenge senior leaders in a constructive and commercially credible way. Strong communication, financial modelling, and data analysis capabilities are essential. Prior experience working within a CRO (Clinical Research Organisation) is essential to bring relevant sector knowledge to the role. A background in private equity environments and experience of M&A activity would be a distinct advantage.

How to Apply

To apply in confidence, please submit a fully detailed CV online, including your current remuneration package and quoting job reference 10090.