Chief Financial Officer

Harper May is partnering with a premium, brand-led retail business recognised for delivering an exceptional customer experience and a highly curated product offering. Operating at the upper end of the consumer market, the company sits in a space where brand reputation, margin discipline, and operational control all have a direct impact on performance.

With clear ambitions for its next phase of growth, the business is now seeking a Chief Financial Officer to join the executive team and help shape long-term strategy, strengthen commercial decision-making, and build the financial platform needed to scale.

The Role
Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the Board, the Chief Financial Officer will take ownership of financial leadership across the business. This role combines strategic influence with hands-on oversight, ensuring the organisation is supported by strong planning, disciplined cash management, and reporting that drives better decision-making at every level.

You will play a key role in guiding trading performance, improving margin visibility, and supporting investment decisions, working closely with senior stakeholders across the business as growth initiatives evolve.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the financial strategy, supporting both short-term performance and long-term growth

• Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Board, providing clear insight, challenge, and recommendations

• Own budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management across the business

• Lead capital planning, funding activity, and relationships with investors and lenders

• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing finance function with a strong commercial focus

• Partner with senior stakeholders on pricing, margin management, expansion, and new initiatives

• Strengthen controls, governance, and scalable reporting frameworks across the organisation

• Oversee statutory reporting, audit processes, and compliance with accounting standards

• Manage tax planning and ensure adherence to all regulatory and statutory requirements

Candidate Profile

• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified, with senior finance leadership experience within a retail environment

• Proven track record in commercially focused, consumer-facing or brand-led businesses

• Strong strategic capability with a practical, delivery-oriented approach

• Confident communicator with experience operating at Board and stakeholder level

• Demonstrated success in building and leading finance teams through periods of growth or change

• Advanced financial modelling capability and strong systems knowledge