Group Head of Finance
Hybrid (UK-based preferred)
Job Title: Group Head of Finance
Location: Hybrid (UK-based preferred)
Reports To: CEO
Companies: Penman Consulting Group
Role Overview:
The Group Head of Finance will be responsible for the overall financial leadership, strategy, planning, and governance of both Penman Consulting and Active Steward. This is a senior leadership role requiring hands-on oversight of the day-to-day finance operations while also contributing to strategic decision-making and long-term planning across the group.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute group-wide financial strategy aligned with business goals and growth objectives.
- Provide strategic insights and financial analysis to support investment, expansion, and operational initiatives.
- Support the CEOs and Boards in budgeting, forecasting, scenario modelling, and business planning.
Financial Management
- Oversee all aspects of financial reporting, management accounts, cash flow, and treasury for both companies.
- Manage budgeting, reforecasting, and variance analysis processes.
- Ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance in consolidated reporting across entities.
Regulatory & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all relevant statutory, tax, and regulatory requirements in the UK and any other jurisdictions in which the group operates.
- Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies during audits and reporting cycles.
- Maintain up-to-date financial policies and procedures across the group.
Operational Finance
- Manage accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and expense processes.
- Oversee and optimise financial systems, tools, and integrations (e.g., accounting platforms, ERP systems).
- Support procurement and contract financial reviews.
Team & Stakeholder Management
- Lead and develop finance staff and external providers (e.g., accountants/bookkeepers).
- Act as a key liaison between finance and other departments including HR, operations, and technology.
- Present regular financial updates to stakeholders and provide input for investor or client reporting where needed.
Skills & Experience:
Essential:
- Qualified accountant (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with at least 5–10 years of senior finance experience.
- Proven experience managing finances across multiple entities or a group structure.
- Strong understanding of UK financial, tax, and regulatory environments.
- Demonstrated ability to think strategically and act operationally.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
Desirable:
- Experience in consultancy, scientific services, ESG, or SaaS environments.
- Knowledge of R&D tax credits, grants, or other innovation finance mechanisms.
- Familiarity with financial technology platforms and automation.
- Language skills in French, Dutch, or Flemish is a distinct advantage, reflecting the group’s international operations.
- Knowledge of Belgian financial, tax, and regulatory environments is highly beneficial, particularly in support of cross-border compliance and operational alignment.
Package:
- Competitive salary
- Performance-based bonus
- Employee Shares Scheme
- Pension and benefits
- Flexible/hybrid working
- Professional development opportunities
If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your CV and cover letter to recruitment@penmanconsulting.com.
Contact us today
If you have any queries, please contact us.