The Head of Finance Operations will lead the finance operations function, ensuring the effective delivery of financial processing, reporting, compliance, and internal controls. This role will drive process improvements, systems optimisation, and provide strong leadership to support the financial integrity and long-term performance of the organisation.
Responsibilities
* Oversee core finance operations including accounts payable, receivable, payroll & pensions, client accounts, banking, taxation, general ledger, and systems administration.
* Ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end close processes.
* Manage banking activities, including weekly cash flow forecasting and maintaining bank facility limits.
* Strengthen and monitor internal controls to ensure compliance with accounting standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements.
* Support statutory, tax, and audit compliance, working closely with external auditors and regulators.
* Drive automation, process improvements, and finance transformation initiatives to enhance efficiency and scalability.
* Collaborate with finance directorate teams such as FP&A, Procurement, and Audit & Risk to align strategic and operational delivery.
* Lead, mentor, and develop the finance operations team, fostering a culture of accountability, excellence, and continuous improvement.
* Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships with banks, auditors, and senior leaders.
* Develop and report on KPIs to monitor and improve financial operational performance.
Skills and Experience
* 10-15 years' post-qualification experience, including at least 5 years in a senior finance leadership role.
* Strong background in finance operations, shared services, and process transformation.
* Proven record of delivering systems improvements and managing ERP platforms (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, NetSuite).
* Excellent leadership, people management, and mentoring skills with a track record of building high-performing teams.
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate at senior levels.
* In-depth knowledge of accounting principles, compliance frameworks, and regulatory obligations.
* Highly analytical, results-driven, and experienced in managing complex financial environments.
Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or related discipline (required).
* Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CPA) required.