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Posted 21 July, 2026

Interim Head of Finance

Reed
Cambridge, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Interim Head of Finance

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Location: Cambridge (hybrid working with regular London travel)Contract: Fixed-term (6-months)Salary: £65,000-£70,000

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The Opportunity

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We are partnering with a well-established and growing organisation seeking an experienced Head of Finance to join on a maternity cover contract. Reporting directly to the CEO, this is a senior leadership role with responsibility for shaping financial strategy, strengthening governance, and supporting business performance across the group.

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This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded finance leader to make an immediate impact within a dynamic, multi-site organisation. This position offers hybrid working with 3 days in the office and 2 days from home and there would be occasional travel to London for this position.

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Key Responsibilities

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Financial Reporting & Performance

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  • Lead the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual management accounts
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  • Monitor financial performance, budgets, forecasts, and key business risks
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  • Produce insightful KPI reporting to support senior decision-making
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  • Manage cashflow forecasting and working capital requirements
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  • Oversee VAT returns and ensure regulatory compliance
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  • Support statutory accounts preparation and financial disclosures
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  • Drive system improvements, including migration to new financial reporting systems
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Financial Control & Governance

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  • Maintain strong financial controls and ensure compliance with accounting standards
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  • Oversee month-end and year-end close processes
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  • Lead external audits and manage key stakeholder relationships (auditors, banks, advisors)
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  • Manage treasury operations and cash management practices
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Leadership & Team Development

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  • Lead and develop the central finance team, promoting a high-performance culture
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  • Oversee day-to-day finance operations
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  • Drive continuous improvement across finance processes and systems
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Risk & Compliance

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  • Ensure compliance with financial, tax, and regulatory requirements
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  • Support development of governance frameworks and policies
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Operational Finance & Improvement

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  • Provide guidance to wider finance teams across the group
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  • Promote consistency, best practice, and collaboration
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  • Drive automation and process improvements across finance functions
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About You

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Essential:

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  • Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
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  • Strong technical finance background (ideally audit-trained)
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  • Minimum 5 years post-qualification experience
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  • Proven leadership experience within a finance function
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  • Advanced Excel skills
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  • Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
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  • Ability to operate both strategically and hands-on
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What’s On Offer

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  • High-profile leadership role reporting directly to the CEO
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  • Opportunity to influence strategy and drive change
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  • Collaborative and purpose-driven working environment
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  • Hybrid working flexibility
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  • Competitive salary and benefits package
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