Head of Finance

Harper May Ltd; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative cosmetics brand in the UK seeks a Head of Finance to oversee financial operations and lead a finance team. This role involves strategic decision-making, forecasting, and financial reporting in a fast-paced environment, requiring ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualifications and a strong background in post-qualified finance roles, especially within retail or FMCG sectors.

Qualifications

• Strong post-qualified experience in finance.
• Proven success in a senior finance role within retail or FMCG.
• Experience leading and developing a finance team.

Responsibilities

• Lead the finance team and ensure timely financial reporting.
• Own budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning processes.
• Deliver monthly management accounts with commercial commentary.

Skills

Strong technical accounting background

Excellent Excel skills

Strong communication skills

Leadership skills

Education

ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified

Tools

Reporting and ERP systems

Job description

Harper May is working with an innovative and fast-growing cosmetics brand known for its creativity, product quality, and strong omni-channel presence. As the business continues to expand into new markets and product categories, they are looking to appoint a Head of Finance to lead the finance function and drive strategic decision-making at a senior level.

Role Overview:
The Head of Finance will oversee all financial operations, reporting, and planning across the business. Reporting directly to the CFO, this role offers broad responsibility, including team leadership, commercial insight, and operational finance oversight in a fast-paced, product-led environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the finance team and ensure timely and accurate financial reporting across the group

• Own budgeting, forecasting, and long-term strategic planning processes

• Deliver monthly management accounts and variance analysis with clear commercial commentary

• Business partner with commercial and operational teams to drive performance and profitability

• Ensure strong financial control and compliance across all financial operations

• Oversee cash flow forecasting, working capital management, and treasury reporting

• Manage external relationships including auditors, banks, and advisors

• Support international expansion, investment analysis, and new product launches

• Drive improvements in financial systems, controls, and reporting processes

Candidate Profile:

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

• Proven success in a senior finance role within retail, FMCG, cosmetics, or a product-based business

• Strong technical accounting background with commercial acumen

• Experience leading and developing a finance team

• Excellent Excel skills and confident working with reporting and ERP systems

• Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to operate at both strategic and hands-on levels

• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence senior stakeholders