Citadel Source are thrilled to be partnering exclusively with a well‑known, household brand as they continue their growth journey. Operating within a dynamic, multi‑site consumer environment, we are recruiting a Head of Finance for a pivotal leadership role, one that will shape financial strategy, elevate performance insight and drive commercial decision‑making during an exciting period of expansion.
About the client
Our client is a fast‑growing, investor‑backed organisation within the consumer, retail and hospitality sector. With strong recent performance and an ambitious growth strategy, the business is investing heavily in its leadership and financial capability.
Following significant enhancements within the finance function, the newly appointed Head of Finance will work alongside the MD, elevating commercial insight and supporting the senior leadership team as they continue to scale. This role is designed for a commercially‑minded finance leader who enjoys shaping strategy while remaining close to operational performance drivers.
The role
This is a highly influential appointment that will partner closely with the Managing Director and senior leadership team. The Head of Finance will lead the financial control agenda, oversee the full planning cycle, enhance performance reporting, and drive data‑led decision‑making. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on execution and will work cross‑functionally with operations, marketing, people and property teams. You will also mentor and uplift the capability of a talented but developing finance team, embedding rigor, curiosity and high‑performance behaviours across the wider business.
About you
You will be a qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with strong technical foundations and commercial acumen. Experience within multi‑site retail, hospitality or consumer environments is highly advantageous. You will thrive in a fast‑paced, entrepreneurial setting and bring the credibility and communication skills needed to influence senior leaders, challenge constructively and drive meaningful insight. A balance of strategic thinking, operational understanding and robust financial control will be key.
As Head of Finance, your responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:
Financial Strategy, Planning & Insight
- Lead the full annual budget and three‑year planning cycles, working closely with the MD and leadership team
- Present financial plans and analysis to Board‑level stakeholders
- Evaluate long‑term strategic choices including new formats, expansion opportunities and operational initiatives
- Oversee KPI development, dashboard reporting and performance tracking to support delivery of strategic priorities
Performance Reporting & Commercial Analysis
- Identify risks, opportunities and required actions to ensure delivery against EBITDA and cash objectives
- Deliver commercial analysis across product, pricing, labour deployment, site performance and operational cost bases
- Support property‑related decisions including investment appraisals, returns modelling and post‑opening reviews
Financial Control & Governance
- Oversee core financial controls, balance sheet management and cashflow forecasting
- Ensure compliance with internal governance processes and external covenant commitments
- Support statutory reporting requirements
- Partner with external stakeholders such as lenders and key suppliers to build value‑driven relationships
Process Improvement & Systems Development
- Lead finance‑related transformation and system enhancements, ensuring solutions are fit‑for‑purpose as the business scales
- Recommend operational and financial process improvements that enhance efficiency and insight
- Support group‑wide initiatives and cross‑functional projects that impact finance and reporting
Leadership & Team Development
- Develop and mentor a high‑potential team, strengthening commercial awareness, analytical ability and decision‑support capability
- Act as a visible leader across the business, engaging with operational teams and understanding drivers of performance
- Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and data‑led decision‑making
What the client offers
- £80,000 – £90,000 depending on experience
- Car Allowance
- Full‑time, permanent role
- Hybrid working, c. 2–3 days office‑based per week
- Comprehensive employee benefits including healthcare, wellbeing initiatives and discounts
- Opportunities for career development and progression within a growing group
- Supportive, collaborative culture with strong investment in people and capability
Sound like a good fit?
If you are interested in this opportunity, please reach out to Dan Morris – dan@citadelsource.com at Citadel Source.