Chief Finance Officer (SMF2) – Banking – Permanent – Hybrid/London – Ref 26021

Company: Howard Lock Consulting Ltd
Apply for the Chief Finance Officer (SMF2) – Banking – Permanent – Hybrid/London – Ref 26021
Location: London
Job Description:

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Finance Officer (SMF2) to lead the financial management and regulatory oversight of a banking branch operation. This is a senior leadership role with direct accountability for financial governance, regulatory compliance, and strategic financial planning.

The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting business growth, ensuring robust financial controls, and maintaining strong relationships with regulators and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead all financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting activities
  • Provide strategic financial insight to support business decision-making
  • Oversee financial reporting in line with regulatory and group requirements.

Regulatory & SMF2 Responsibilities

  • Act as the designated SMF2 (Chief Finance Function) under regulatory frameworks
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and reporting standards
  • Maintain effective governance and control frameworks.
  • Oversee financial risk management, including liquidity, capital, and market risk
  • Ensure robust internal controls and financial integrity
  • Partner with risk and compliance teams to strengthen the control environment.

Stakeholder Management

  • Act as a key contact for regulators, auditors, and senior stakeholders
  • Present financial performance and insights to the board and senior leadership
  • Collaborate with group finance and international teams where applicable. xwzovoh

Operational Oversight

  • Manage day-to-day finance operations, including accounting, tax, and treasury
  • Drive process improvements and efficiencies within the finance function
  • Lead and develop the finance team

Key Requirements

  • Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role within banking or financial services
  • Prior experience holding or being approved for an SMF2 (or equivalent) role is highly desirable
  • Strong knowledge of UK regulatory frameworks and financial reporting standards
  • Demonstrated experience in managing regulatory relationships
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
  • Strategic mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities

Considering making an application for this job Check all the details in this job description, and then click on Apply.

Remote working/work at home options are available for this role….

Posted: April 2nd, 2026