Head of Finance - 12-15 Month Contract - Warrington - £85k per annum

Accountable Recruitment is delighted to partner with a leading organisation in Warrington to appoint an experienced Head of Finance for a 12-15 month maternity cover contract. This role offers a fantastic opportunity for an accomplished finance professional with a strong technical background and leadership experience to step into a high-impact position.

Salary/Benefits:
- £85,000 per annum
- 12-15 month contract
- Based in Warrington, with hybrid working options (3 day in on site)

Key

Responsibilities:

- Leadership & Team Management: Oversee a small team, ensuring efficient daily operations across financial reporting, transactional finance, and compliance. Mentor and develop the team, setting clear performance objectives.
- Financial Reporting: Lead the production of accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements. Ensure adherence to statutory requirements and accounting standards.
- Budgeting & Forecasting: Manage the annual budgeting process and rolling forecasts, providing strategic insights to senior management. Monitor financial performance, identifying risks and opportunities.
- Financial Planning & Analysis: Conduct financial modeling and variance analysis to support decision-making. Present financial data and key metrics to the board and senior leadership team.
- Cash Flow Management: Oversee cash flow forecasts, working capital management, and debt facilities to ensure liquidity and financial stability. Manage relationships with banks and external financial institutions.
- Process Improvement: Continuously review and improve financial processes, controls, and systems to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and compliance. Lead automation and system integration initiatives where needed.
- Risk Management & Compliance: Ensure the organization remains compliant with all financial regulations, including tax laws, VAT, and other statutory requirements. Develop and maintain internal control systems.
- Stakeholder Management: Act as a key business partner to senior leadership, providing strategic financial advice and recommendations. Support operational teams with financial insights to drive profitability and cost control.
- Audit & Year-End Processes: Lead the year-end audit process, coordinating with external auditors to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting. Address audit queries and implement recommendations as required.
- Ad Hoc Projects: Support on special projects such as business restructuring, system implementations, or financial reviews, ensuring robust financial oversight throughout.

Who will I report to?
- Reporting directly to the Finance Director.

Ideal Experience:
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent).
- Proven experience in a Head of Finance, Financial Controller, or senior finance role with a technical focus.
- Expertise in leading and managing finance teams, with a hands-on approach to both strategic and operational finance.
- Strong technical knowledge of financial reporting standards (IFRS/UK GAAP), budgeting, forecasting, and compliance.
- Advanced Excel skills, with the ability to analyze, interpret, and present complex financial data.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience working alongside senior management and external stakeholders.

This is a great opportunity to take on a critical leadership role in a respected organisation. If you are a proactive, results-driven finance leader looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you!