Interim Head of Finance (insurance)

Hays; Bristol; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in finance is seeking an Interim Head of Finance for an initial 6-month contract based in Central Bristol. The role involves re-engineering the finance function, ensuring effective financial control, and leading a team while managing key financial relationships. Ideal candidates will have over 10 years of experience, particularly in insurance contexts, and must be qualified ACCA, ACA, or CIMA.

Qualifications

• 10 years+ post-qualification experience in finance.
• Experience with insurance companies, including Solvency II.
• Ability to influence at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Provide finance leadership and direction for the finance function.
• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Manage and mentor the existing finance team.

Skills

Commercial acumen

Problem-solving

Leadership

Communication

Adaptability

Education

ACCA, ACA or CIMA qualification

Job description

6-month interim finance contract

• Job Title: Interim Head of Finance
• Reporting to: CFO
• Location: Central Bristol - 3 days required in the office per week
• Length of assignment: 6 months initially (rest of 2025)
  
  Our client is looking for an experienced candidate (10 years+ post qualification), with substantial insurance company experience (including Solvency II/UK), and dealing directly with the PRA & FCA.
  
  

Job PurposeTo re-engineer the current finance function to deliver the following structure and combined resources such that the finance function has the requisite skills, experience and commitment to deliver:

• Strong and effective financial control
• Reliable and accurate regulatory reporting as required (PRA, HMRC )
• Strong expense management, reporting and engagement with the relevant ExCo members
• Dynamic finance input and representation as required on the Society's change agenda and associated projects

Key Responsibilities

• To provide finance leadership and direction to the finance function and the Society as a whole, reporting to the FD and the broader ExCo as required.
• To lead the annual budgeting & expense apportionment modelling and forecasting processes, working closely with all key stakeholders, but in particular the CFO & FD, & Head of Sales & Marketing.
• To own the monthly financial management reporting for all subsidiaries, scope to include financial performance year-to-date, compliance or otherwise with key financial controls.
• To lead and own completion of all annual statutory accounts, within the required timeframe and to the standard required.
• To set and operate appropriate financial controls for the Society and its primary subsidiary, scope to include:

for policyholder accounting (premiums and claims) where applicable for the whole portfolio;

commissions payable:

reinsurance accounting:

accounts payable and accounts receivable.

• To monitor & manage cash flow and liquidity forecasts in conjunction with the FD liability/asset matching, and treasury management.
• To operate the payroll for the Society and the Society's superannuation schemes
• To own and manage key relationships such as the internal and external audit partners and the chair of the Society's audit committee.
• To manage the existing finance team, providing coaching and support as appropriate, ensuring clarity of roles & responsibilities.

Knowledge & Experience

• Qualified ACCA, ACA or CIMA qualification
• 10 years+ post-qualification experience, with substantial insurance company experience (including Solvency II/UK), and dealing directly with the PRA & FCA
• Sharp commercial acumen, intellect and a seasoned professional who is seen as a valued strategic advisor and business partner.
• Experienced and motivated self-starter, using their own initiative, and the ability to demonstrate adaptability and flexibility.
• Excellent communicator, ability to build relationships and influence at all levels.
• High level of self-awareness and ability to get the best out of people.
• Creative approach to problem-solving.
• Leadership qualities - capable of leading the team and acting as a coach and mentor

What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or contact Charles Maidment from the Hays senior finance team in Bristol.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
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