Head of Finance

Office Angels; Scotland; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment firm is seeking a Head of Finance in Livingston, Scotland. This permanent full-time position involves leading the finance function, managing budgets, and driving business performance in a fast-growing SME. Candidates should have solid accounting qualifications, experience in an SME environment, and strong leadership skills. The role offers opportunities to influence strategic decision-making and contribute to operational improvements, along with a competitive salary based on experience.

Qualifications

• Full professional accounting qualification is essential.
• Experience leading finance teams in SMEs needed.
• Advanced skills in Excel and financial software required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance team to foster a high-performance culture.
• Manage budgeting, forecasting and cash flow processes.
• Analyze financial metrics for informed decision-making.
• Ensure compliance and governance in financial operations.

Skills

Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ICAS, ACA preferable)

Experience in ambitious SMEs or owner-managed businesses

Strong understanding of VAT, Construction Industry Scheme and WIP/accrual accounting

Proven ability to lead and develop a finance team

Proficient in financial analysis, reporting and strategic decision support

Advanced Excel skills

Tools

Xero

Clear Books

Lightyear

Quarterback

Job description

Job Title

Head of Finance

Location

Livingston, Scotland

Contract

Permanent, Full Time

Salary

Competitive, dependent on experience

About the Role

OA Executive is working with a dynamic, ambitious SME in the Facilities Management sector to recruit a Head of Finance. This retirement replacement role offers the opportunity to lead the finance function, drive business performance, and contribute to strategic decision‑making in a fast‑growing, innovative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the finance team, fostering a high‑performance culture
• Manage budgets, forecasts, management accounts, cash flow, WIP, accruals, and variance analysis
• Analyse key financial metrics to inform business decisions and strategic planning
• Oversee compliance, governance, VAT, Construction Industry Scheme payments, and risk management
• Implement processes and automation in partnership with external IT providers
• Build and maintain relationships with auditors, bankers, lawyers and other stakeholders
• Support strategic projects, including growth initiatives, acquisitions, and operational improvements
• Ensure excellent internal and external customer service

Essential Skills & Experience

• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ICAS, ACA preferable)
• Experience in ambitious SMEs or owner‑managed businesses
• Strong understanding of VAT, Construction Industry Scheme and WIP/accrual accounting
• Proven ability to lead and develop a finance team
• Proficient in financial analysis, reporting and strategic decision support
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with Xero, Clear Books or bespoke systems

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Audit experience
• Experience implementing finance processes and technologies
• Knowledge of operational improvements and growth strategies

Technology

• Financial software (Xero, Lightyear, Quarterback or similar)
• Advanced Excel and data analysis tools

How to Apply

If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for finance and a desire to make an impact, please submit your CV outlining your experience and suitability for this role.

Equal Opportunities

OA Executive is part of Office Angels. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applicants of all backgrounds. Reasonable adjustments will be made at any stage to support your application.

By applying for this role your details will be submitted to Office Angels. Our Candidate Privacy Information Statement explaining how we will use your information is available on our website.