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Posted 24 July, 2026

Head of Finance

First City Recruitment Ltd
Chelmsford, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Are you an ACCA/ICAEW qualified finance leader ready to shape the financial future of a fast-growing global events business? This £15m-turnover organisation is expanding rapidly and now requires a commercially minded Head of Finance to lead the accounting function as they approach audit threshold.

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This is a high-impact role where you’ll combine hands-on financial management with strategic decision-making, supporting the Founder & CEO and acting as a key ambassador across international defence events.

What you’ll be doing\n
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  • Lead and develop the finance function, including line management of a growing team
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  • Deliver financial updates to senior stakeholders and external partners
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  • Oversee month-end, year-end and UK VAT reconciliations
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  • Manage payroll and ensure full compliance with FRS standards
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  • Conduct internal audits across income, costs, VAT and bank reconciliations
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  • Implement new financial systems, policies and software solutions
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  • Support external audit preparation as the business scales
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  • Represent the company at domestic and international events
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What you’ll need\n
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  • ACCA / ICAEW qualified (CIMA/ACA desirable)
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  • Strong Xero and Microsoft Office experience
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  • Proven experience with external audit and internal audit processes
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  • Ability to lead, coach and develop a finance team
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  • Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, commercial mindset
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  • Resilient, adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment
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  • Interest in defence, maritime or armed forces sectors is a bonus
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Why join?\n
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  • Competitive salary + excellent bonus schemes
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  • 28 days holiday + two additional weeks off every December
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  • Regular team socials and international travel opportunities
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  • Professional, supportive environment with genuine progression
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  • A business with a strong track record of promoting from within
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Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5:00pm (Office-based)

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If you’re a driven finance professional looking to step into a strategic leadership role within a growing global organisation, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now.