Interim Head of Finance

Reports to: Director of Finance
Direct reports: 2 (Finance Team)
Location: London, Hybrid
Salary: £70-85k dependant on experience

Our client is seeking a proactive and commercially astute Head of Finance to lead the finance function and support the Director of Finance in driving financial performance, process improvements, and strategic decision-making across the organisation.

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for delivering accurate and timely financial reporting, overseeing key operational finance areas—including month-end close, payroll, cash flow management, and budgeting—and working closely with service managers to provide insightful financial support.

You will play a key part in shaping financial strategy, enabling profitability, supporting growth initiatives, and ensuring strong financial governance. This role also acts as a key business partner to operational leads and deputises for the Director when required.

Financial Leadership & Business Partnering

• Provide commercial financial support and analysis to BU, helping them understand and manage contract income, budgets, and resource allocation.

• Act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders, offering strategic financial insights to inform key decisions.

• Lead financial modelling for new service developments, funding proposals, and scenario planning.

Financial Planning & Analysis

• Lead annual budgeting and forecasting processes.

• Monitor financial performance and analyse variances to provide recommendations and early interventions.

• Deliver insightful management reports, KPIs, and dashboards to inform leadership decisions.

Month-End & Financial Operations

• Manage the full month-end close process, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.

• Oversee accounts receivable, weekly payments, balance sheet reconciliations, and cash flow forecasting.

• Ensure compliance with financial controls, policies, and statutory obligations.

Process Improvement & Efficiency

• Drive improvements in financial processes, systems, and reporting tools to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and visibility.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to streamline operations and reduce manual workloads.

Payroll & External Audit