Lab49
is an award-winning specialist consultancy that creates bespoke technology in partnership with the most important companies in finance.
We were founded in 2002 to bring Silicon Valley solutions to Wall Street's door. Since then, we have worked on successive waves of technological change, including distributed computing, high-speed
automation, enterprise UX/UI, digital distribution, DevOps, cloud and data science.
Lab49
is looking for a commercially minded and hands-on
Head of Finance
to take full ownership of the global finance function. Operating at the intersection of strategic planning and operational execution, this role is critical to enabling data-driven decision-making and protecting the financial health of the business.
As
Head of Finance
, you'll work closely with senior leadership to shape and guide the business through financial planning, performance management, and commercial analysis. You'll oversee all core finance activities, including reporting, forecasting, budgeting, and deal support, while also driving greater visibility and accountability through dashboards and automation.
You'll be expected to challenge constructively, guide on spend optimisation, and ensure commercial discipline across the business. While you'll operate with a high degree of independence, you'll also partner closely with group finance to ensure alignment with wider policies and governance frameworks.
This is a high-impact role, ideal for someone who enjoys autonomy, thrives in a fast-moving environment, and wants to contribute meaningfully to the growth and maturity of the business.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Lead all aspects of finance for the business, from day-to-day control to strategic financial support
* Provide guidance to the leadership team (CEO, Global Heads of Practice, etc.) on spend optimisation, value-for-money decisions, and protecting the bottom line
* Contribute to board-level discussions and play a key role in shaping the financial direction of the business
* Lead budgeting and planning cycles, working closely with senior stakeholders across all company functions
* Own monthly close, management reporting, forecasting, and cash flow oversight
* Deliver commercial insight to support decision-making on performance, pricing, and investment opportunities
* Oversee financial performance at the business unit level (accounts, practices, etc.), ensuring transparency and accountability across the portfolio
* Partner with group finance to ensure alignment on policies, reporting standards, and governance
* Support deal shaping and validation through margin analysis, cost modelling, and scenario planning
* Develop dashboards and reporting tools to increase transparency and enable self-service for key stakeholders
* Lead and develop a globally distributed team of financial analysts (Poland, Hungary, India), ensuring high-quality output and consistent delivery
KEY QUALIFICATIONS:
* Professional accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) preferred, though candidates with strong financial leadership experience in similar environments will also be considered
* Proven experience (minimum 6 years) leading the finance function in a fast-paced, service-based business: consulting, technology, or professional services
* Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels and manage a distributed team (2+ years of leadership experience is a must)
* Strong commercial acumen, with a track record of advising senior leadership on financial performance, cost control, and value optimization
* Excellent command of budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial reporting
* Demonstrated ability to provide strategic support while maintaining operational grip
* Experience in deal support, including pricing, margin analysis, and financial modeling
* High level of proficiency in Excel and financial modeling; familiarity with reporting and dashboard tools is a plus
* Hands-on, proactive, and solutions-oriented, with a focus on continuous improvement and driving impact