Head of Finance

Harper May is working with a founder-led property development and construction group operating across residential, commercial, and mixed-use schemes. The business has grown steadily over the past five years, with an expanding project portfolio and strengthened balance sheet. Recent acquisitions have widened the platform, and the group is now scaling its finance capability to match the complexity and volume of activity ahead. They are seeking a Head of Finance to embed robust financial systems and deliver clearer insight across the business.

The Role
You will report to the Managing Director and own the finance function end-to-end. This is a hands-on leadership position, blending operational execution with strategic contribution. You will work across project delivery, commercial operations, and board-level planning, translating financial data into actionable business insight.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage month-end close, produce timely management accounts with clear variance and commentary
• Lead cash forecasting and working capital management across active project sites
• Establish and oversee financial controls, reconciliations, and compliance frameworks
• Work with project leads to track costs, margins, and profitability in real time
• Prepare statutory accounts and manage relationship with external auditors
• Review and upgrade finance systems, reporting tools, and process efficiency
• Lead and develop the finance team; oversee external advisory relationships

What we are looking for

• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified, or equivalent experience at this seniority
• Direct experience in construction, property development, or similar project-based businesses
• Proven ability to implement financial controls and improve reporting disciplines
• Commercial mindset-comfortable discussing commercial trade-offs with operational and project teams
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to influence senior stakeholders informally
• Systems-literate; experience embedding or upgrading finance platforms