Head of Finance

Harper May is working with a growing property developer operating across residential and mixed-use schemes in the South East. The business has expanded its portfolio significantly over the past three years through a combination of organic growth and strategic partnerships, and now manages a pipeline of projects at various stages of planning and delivery. With increased complexity in financial reporting and a need to embed stronger commercial discipline across the development cycle, the business is now strengthening its finance function and seeking a Head of Finance.

The Role
Reporting to the Managing Director, you will lead the finance team and own all financial operations, strategy, and reporting. This is a hands-on role that combines oversight of day-to-day accounting with direct involvement in project appraisal, cash flow planning, and commercial decision-making across the development pipeline.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the complete finance function, including statutory accounts, management reporting, and regulatory compliance
• Build and oversee project-level financial tracking and profitability analysis across live developments
• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management to support planning and development cycles
• Work closely with operational and commercial teams to provide financial insight and support decision-making on scheme viability and margin
• Oversee balance sheet management, working capital control, and banking relationships
• Manage external advisers and audit processes
• Drive improvements in finance systems, data quality, and reporting capability

What we are looking for

• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with 7+ years of post-qualification experience
• Demonstrated experience in property development, real estate, or construction finance
• Strong technical accounting skills with proven ability to build robust financial controls
• Commercial acumen and experience working alongside operational and project teams
• Team leadership capability and proven ability to manage and develop finance staff
• Strong communication skills and comfort working at board level