Finance Director

Harper May is working with an independent restaurant operator in London with a strong reputation for food quality and guest loyalty. The business operates a portfolio of neighbourhood-focused sites and is owned by a founder-operator with a long track record in the sector. Over the past 18 months, the group has stabilised after a period of restructuring and is now positioned for measured expansion. To support this next phase-new site development, improved operational leverage, and stronger financial infrastructure-they are seeking a Finance Director to join the leadership team.

The Role
Reporting to the founder-owner and partnering with operations and commercial leads, you will oversee all financial strategy, reporting, and control. This is a hands-on role that sits at the heart of the business, combining Board-level insight with direct involvement in site economics, cash management, and investment planning.

• Own financial planning, budgeting, and rolling forecasts across the group
• Drive site-level profitability analysis, labour cost management, and pricing strategy
• Manage cash flow, working capital, and relationships with banks and funders
• Lead capital allocation for new openings and refits, supported by rigorous appraisal
• Build and mentor a small finance team, defining processes and reporting standards
• Oversee statutory accounts, audit, tax compliance, and internal financial controls

What we are looking for

• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with at least five years in a senior finance role
• Direct experience in hospitality, restaurants, or multi-unit food service
• Track record of supporting profitable growth and operational improvement
• Commercial mindset with appetite for hands-on problem-solving and site visits
• Comfortable at founder level and with ambiguity during growth phases
• Competent in Excel, financial modelling, and restaurant-specific systems