Interim CFO

Company Background

Our client is the largest supplier of scientific equipment into UK and Irish schools whilst also being in the unique situation of also being able to offer laboratory chemicals, equipment and consumable supplies to commercial, industrial and research customers throughout the UK, Ireland in addition to 150 countries worldwide. We are small enough as a company to be responsive and flexible yet large enough to offer customers access to many leading brands. Our core values are rooted in our history as a private business and dedication to customer service is at the heart of everything that we do.

Essential Functions

• Drive change and improvements throughout the finance function
• Ensure that accurate, relevant and timely reporting is produced to assist the business monitor performance and make decisions.
• Produce all financial reports including monthly and annual accounts for the Group.
• Advise the business of the financial implications of proposed courses of action.
• Align all support function activities to enable delivery of the business KPIs.
• Ensure that appropriate assumptions are made in relation to the business financial plan and annual budget proposals and provide advice to the board on these matters.
• Build an appropriate cash flow model to help plan and manage cash flow.
• Manage internal and external audits of the business.
• Build strong relationships with the Board, the owners and their advisers.
• Motivate, lead and develop the team to achieve excellence.
• Set objectives for the team with measurable deliverables and provide regular feedback on performance

Key Skills Required

• ACA/ACCA/CIMA Qualified
• Proven business experience and contribution as a senior executive, not just as an accountant, preferably in a related business sector or service environment.
• A team player with an open and honest approach and a positive "can do" outlook who works with others to address issues and identify lasting solutions.
• An effective leader of people who applies management best practice principles on a daily basis to engage and inspire colleagues, staff and stakeholders.
• Personable, able to build rapport with colleagues, the board and other stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for a demanding private equity backed environment.
• High-level personal organisation and business administration skills
• Ability and proven experience of building a high-performing team which operates efficiently, productively and cost-effectively.
• Be personally energetic, dynamic, positive and enthusiastic and possess the ability to think laterally and act through reasoned decision making.
• Preferably has experience of PE/VC backed companies
• Preferably has experience of managing IF/ID facility
• Possess the ability to implement and manage change in the business.
• Possess the willingness to learn, improve and adapt.
• Possess strong computer skills and competency in Microsoft Office packages.

Details

• Based in Bilston
• Immediate start
• 6 months fixed term contract - prospect of full time role in the future
• £65k - £75k based on experience/ability