Head of Finance

We have been exclusively retained to recruit a Head of Finance for a growing SME business based in Chelmsford. This is a key leadership role, responsible for driving financial performance, providing strategic insight to senior stakeholders, and ensuring robust financial controls across the business. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will oversee all aspects of finance while supporting wider business growth through effective planning, analysis, automation and decision-making. Responsibilities As a Head of Finance you will be responsible for... • Lead and manage the day-to-day finance function. • Prepare monthly management accounts, board reports and financial analysis. • Oversee budgeting, forecasting and cash flow management. • Develop financial strategies that support business growth and profitability. • Ensure compliance with statutory reporting requirements, VAT (UK & overseas), corporation tax and payroll obligations. • Manage the year-end audit process and liaise with external auditors. • Produce KPI reporting and provide commercial insight to senior management. • Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, controls and efficiencies. • Help grow the business through multiple revenue streams • Play a key role in the automation, upgrade and streamlining of systems processes and overall business responsibilities • Support business planning, investment decisions and strategic projects. Requirements As a Head of Finance, you will need... • ACA, ACCA or CIMA Qualified • Experienced in a senior finance leadership role such as Head of Finance, Financial Controller or similar • Commercially aware with the ability to influence senior stakeholders. • Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards and financial regulations. • Advanced Excel skills with experience in upgrading systems • A confident leader with excellent communication and people management skills. • Analytical, proactive and capable of working in a fast-paced environment Benefits As a Head of Finance, you will get... • Competitive salary of £70,000. • Company bonus scheme. • Pension contribution. • 25 days holiday plus bank holidays. • Hybrid working opportunities. • Ongoing professional development. • A genuine opportunity to influence the strategic direction of a growing business. If you're an ambitious finance leader looking to join a forward-thinking business where you can make a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.