Reed
Interim Head of Finance
Location: Cambridge (hybrid working with regular London travel)
Contract: Fixed-term (6-months)
Salary: £65,000-£70,000
The Opportunity
We are partnering with a well-established and growing organisation seeking an experienced Head of Finance to join on a maternity cover contract. Reporting directly to the CEO, this is a senior leadership role with responsibility for shaping financial strategy, strengthening governance, and supporting business performance across the group.
This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded finance leader to make an immediate impact within a dynamic, multi-site organisation. This position offers hybrid working with 3 days in the office and 2 days from home and there would be occasional travel to London for this position.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Reporting & Performance
- Lead the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual management accounts
- Monitor financial performance, budgets, forecasts, and key business risks
- Produce insightful KPI reporting to support senior decision-making
- Manage cashflow forecasting and working capital requirements
- Oversee VAT returns and ensure regulatory compliance
- Support statutory accounts preparation and financial disclosures
- Drive system improvements, including migration to new financial reporting systems
Financial Control & Governance
- Maintain strong financial controls and ensure compliance with accounting standards
- Oversee month-end and year-end close processes
- Lead external audits and manage key stakeholder relationships (auditors, banks, advisors)
- Manage treasury operations and cash management practices
Leadership & Team Development
- Lead and develop the central finance team, promoting a high-performance culture
- Oversee day-to-day finance operations
- Drive continuous improvement across finance processes and systems
Risk & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with financial, tax, and regulatory requirements
- Support development of governance frameworks and policies
Operational Finance & Improvement
- Provide guidance to wider finance teams across the group
- Promote consistency, best practice, and collaboration
- Drive automation and process improvements across finance functions
About You
Essential:
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Strong technical finance background (ideally audit-trained)
- Minimum 5 years post-qualification experience
- Proven leadership experience within a finance function
- Advanced Excel skills
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
- Ability to operate both strategically and hands-on
What’s On Offer
- High-profile leadership role reporting directly to the CEO
- Opportunity to influence strategy and drive change
- Collaborative and purpose-driven working environment
- Hybrid working flexibility
- Competitive salary and benefits package
To apply for this job please visit www.reed.co.uk.
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