Finance Manager

Cedar is partnered with a PE-backed retail business in Central London to appoint an Interim Finance Manager. This is a 6-12 month contract offering a day rate of £450-550 per day, Outside IR35. The Company This private equity-backed retail business has experienced significant growth through acquisition and organic expansion, with further investment planned. As the business continues to scale, the finance function is focused on improving processes, enhancing reporting and building a more efficient operating model to support the next stage of growth. Working closely with senior finance leadership, this role offers the opportunity to improve the effectiveness of the finance function, streamline ways of working and deliver high-quality financial information to support commercial decision-making. The Role Reporting to the Financial Controller, the Interim Finance Manager will play a key role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the finance function. You'll work across finance and the wider business to streamline processes, enhance reporting, improve finance systems and strengthen controls, whilst supporting the day-to-day running of the finance function. This role would suit an experienced interim who enjoys identifying practical improvements, simplifying processes and delivering immediate value within a fast-paced environment. Key responsibilities include: • Identifying and implementing improvements across finance processes, reporting and controls. • Streamlining month-end activities to improve efficiency, accuracy and consistency. • Supporting enhancements to ERP systems and finance reporting tools. • Improving financial reporting and management information for senior stakeholders. • Reviewing existing finance processes and recommending practical improvements. • Working with operational teams to improve financial processes and data quality. • Supporting finance activities relating to acquisitions and business integration. • Assisting with budgeting, forecasting and cash flow reporting. • Producing insightful management reporting, variance analysis and KPI reporting. • Supporting the Financial Controller with process documentation and the implementation of best practice. • Coaching junior members of the finance team where required. Your Profile • ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified, or similar. • Strong management accounting and financial reporting experience. • Experience improving finance processes within a commercial environment. • Confident producing budgets, forecasts and management information. • Advanced Excel skills and experience working with ERP systems. • Comfortable working with stakeholders across finance and the wider business. • Able to work independently and deliver results in a fast-paced environment. • Experience within a private equity-backed, consumer, retail, ecommerce or multi-site business would be advantageous. Compensation & Working Arrangements The day rate for this Interim Finance Manager role is £450-550 per day, Outside IR35. The role is based in Central London with hybrid working, typically requiring office attendance 2-3 days per week. Working closely with the Financial Controller, you'll play a key role in improving the effectiveness of the finance function and supporting a growing private equity-backed retail business through its next phase of growth.