Head Of Commercial Finance

Lord Search & Selection; London; On-site; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

A leading Clinical Research Organisation in London is seeking a finance leader to drive commercial outcomes across business units. The ideal candidate will have ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualifications and extensive experience in a clinical research environment. This hybrid role involves influencing key decisions and leading a high-performing finance team to support strategic growth. An excellent opportunity for seasoned professionals looking to make a significant impact in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualified experience.
• Ability to influence and challenge senior leaders effectively.
• Prior experience within a Clinical Research Organisation is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide commercial finance leadership across business units.
• Act as a business partner owning financial performance.
• Lead and develop a small, high-performing finance team.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Financial modelling

Data analysis

Education

ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualification

Job description

Clinical Research Organisation PE-Backed International Growth Business
c. 120,000 + Benefits
London (Hybrid - 2 Days in Office)
Reference: 10090

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.