Head of Finance

Company: Howett Thorpe
Apply for the Head of Finance
Location: Surrey
Job Description:

Financial Controller / Head of Finance

A well-established, privately owned multi-entity Group is seeking a technically strong and commercially astute Head of Finance to take ownership of the finance function.

Reporting directly to senior leadership, this is a broad and hands-on role combining financial control, statutory oversight, and commercial support. You will lead a small team while driving improvements in reporting, controls, and financial visibility across the Group.

This role is ideally suited to a qualified finance professional who thrives in an SME environment and is comfortable operating both strategically and at a detailed level.  This is a high-impact role offering real ownership and visibility within a growing, entrepreneurial Group. You will play a key role in shaping financial strategy while maintaining strong operational control, ideal for someone looking to step into a true Head of Finance position within an SME setting.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Control & Reporting

  • Full ownership of the Group finance function, ensuring robust financial controls and governance
  • Production of timely and accurate monthly management accounts, including consolidated Group reporting (P&L, EBITDA, balance sheet)
  • Oversight and review of statutory accounts across multiple entities
  • Maintenance of the fixed asset register and integrity of the general ledger

Audit & Compliance

  • Lead the year-end audit process, including preparation of audit files and primary liaison with external auditors
  • Ensure full compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements, including VAT, corporation tax, and CIS
  • Manage relationships with HMRC, banking partners, and external advisors

Cashflow & Commercial Insight

  • Ownership of Group cashflow forecasting and working capital management
  • Development of robust financial models to support strategic planning and investment decisions
  • Delivery of meaningful KPI reporting and financial analysis to support operational performance

Leadership & Development

  • Management and development of a finance team of four, covering transactional finance, payroll, and management accounting
  • Drive process improvements and efficiencies across the finance function

Strategic Support

  • Support budgeting and forecasting processes
  • Contribute to treasury management and debt financing activities
  • Act as a key financial partner to the wider business

Candidate Profile

  • ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified (or equivalent), or QBE with demonstrable senior-level experience
  • Proven experience operating within a multi-entity environment
  • Strong technical grounding in statutory accounts, audit, and tax compliance
  • Advanced financial modelling and analytical capability
  • Strong Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, modelling)
  • Track record of managing and developing finance teams
  • Commercially aware with the ability to translate financial data into actionable insight
  • Hands-on, detail-oriented, and capable of operating autonomously in a fast-paced environment

 

Posted: April 1st, 2026