Head of Finance

HW People Ltd; Leeds; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Head of Finance to lead their financial operations in a dynamic SME environment. This role offers the opportunity to take full responsibility for the finance function, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management. The ideal candidate will possess a strong commercial mindset, be hands-on with financial details, and have a proven track record in managing finance teams. Join this performance-driven organization where your insights will directly influence business strategy and profitability. If you're ready to step into a leadership role and drive financial excellence, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• Full accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, ACMA or equivalent) is essential.
• Experience in an SME environment is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of monthly management accounts and ensure data integrity.
• Manage cash flow forecasting and oversee financial audits.

Skills

Cash Flow Management

Budgeting

Forecasting

Technical Accounting

Stakeholder Engagement

Education

ACA Qualification

ACCA Qualification

ACMA Qualification

Job description

Head of Finance / Financial Controller – c£10m turnover business in Leeds

SME business (c£10m turnover) – service-based business

Leeds City Centre – hybrid working

Sitting as the number 1 in finance, reporting into the business owners, this role will take full responsibility for the SME businesses finance function.

This business are performance driven and fast paced so will require someone who can be hands on in the details but also bring a strong “value add”, commercial mindset to the role.

The role:

• Lead the preparation of monthly management accounts
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial data and reporting
• Own VAT returns, tax submissions and payroll compliance
• Manage and optimise cash flow forecasting and working capital
• Lead annual budgeting and forecasting cycles
• Oversee financial audits and maintain strong internal controls
• Provide financial insight to support commercial decisions and business strategy
• Manage small team of direct reports
• Identify and implement process improvements and automation opportunities
• Support long-term planning, contract reviews and cost modelling

The requirements:

Ideally, you will have experience of excelling in an SME environment, be ready to be the number 1 in finance and hold a full accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA or ACMA or equivalent).

A strong understanding of the importance of cash in an SME environment is essential, with strong cash flow forecasting experience needed. Ideally you will also be able to provide advice and guidance on areas they can improve processes and profitability.

• Proven experience as a Finance Manager or Senior Finance Lead in an SME (c£5m–£35m turnover)
• Strong technical accounting knowledge
• Confident in budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management
• Experience managing or mentoring junior finance staff
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified (or part-qualified with relevant experience)