Finance Director Designate

Sharp Consultancy are working on a standout opportunity for an ambitious, commercially minded finance leader to step into a Finance Director Designate role within a well-established and growing £60m turnover service business.

With the current Finance Director preparing to step down in the next 12 months, this role offers a structured and supported transition into the FD position, giving you the time, exposure, and mentorship needed to succeed at board level.

You'll be working closely alongside an experienced FD, gaining deep insight into the business, its strategy, and its growth plans before taking full ownership.

This is a role for someone who wants to develop true commercial insight, influencing key decisions, and becoming a trusted advisor to the board, partnering directly with the CEO and senior leadership team to shape strategy, drive performance, and deliver ambitious growth targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with the outgoing Finance Director to ensure a smooth and comprehensive handover, gaining full exposure to board-level responsibilities.
• Partner with the CEO to develop and execute strategic plans, supporting delivery of growth and profitability targets.
• Act as a commercial business partner across the organisation, providing insight and challenge to drive better decision making.
• Lead the annual budgeting process, rolling forecasts, and long term financial planning aligned to business strategy.
• Deliver clear, actionable financial reporting and MI, translating data into meaningful commercial insight.
• Manage, mentor, and develop a team of 5, building capability and succession within the finance team.
• Identify and implement process improvements and system enhancements to EPICOR.
• Support business development activity, including pricing strategy, contract evaluation, and investment decisions.
• Play a key role in board meetings, contributing to strategic discussions and decision making.
• Lead on cashflow management, working capital optimisation, and funding requirements as the business grows.

About You

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent).
• Proven experience in a senior finance role within a service led or people based business.
• Strong commercial acumen, with the ability to influence and challenge at senior level.
• Demonstrable leadership experience, with a passion for developing teams.
• Ambitious and career driven, with a clear desire to step into a Finance Director role.
• Comfortable operating in a fast paced, evolving environment.

The Package

• Salary up to £85,000
• Bonus scheme
• Opportunity to play a key role in a high growth business with acquisition plans

Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK full time without restriction.