This is a rare opportunity to join one of London’s most iconic retail brands in a pivotal leadership role, combining hands-on financial control with strategic influence.

• Location: London (Covent Garden)
• Reports to: Managing Director / Board
• Team: 4 direct reports (Accounts, Payroll, Credit Control, Admin Support)
• Hybrid working: 3 days in office
• Salary: £TBC + bonus + benefits
  

The Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to join one of London’s most established and well-known retail brands in a pivotal leadership role. The business operates across physical retail, e-commerce, publishing, and property, and is now seeking a commercially focused Finance Director to play a central role in shaping its next phase of growth.

Reporting directly to the Managing Director and Board, this is a hands-on role combining strategic leadership with full operational ownership of the finance function. The role replaces a long-standing incumbent and would suit a pragmatic, adaptable finance leader who thrives in an SME environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership

• Lead all management and statutory reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and year-end processes
• Maintain robust financial controls, compliance, and accounting integrity across all entities
• Oversee payroll, VAT, cash flow, and treasury management
• Manage relationships with external accountants and auditors
• Deliver clear, timely, and actionable management information

Strategic & Commercial Support

• Partner with the Managing Director and Board on commercial strategy and profitability
• Provide insight on trading performance, stock management, and property assets
• Support retail and e-commerce performance through margin, pricing, and cost analysis
• Lead financial modelling for new initiatives and partnerships

Governance & Company Secretarial

• Act as Company Secretary, maintaining statutory registers and filings
• Prepare board packs, agendas, and minutes
• Oversee insurance, memberships, and compliance documentation

Operational Oversight

• Lead and develop a small finance team
• Oversee accounting systems and act as key liaison with IT providers
• Manage relationships with banks and payment providers
• Ensure HR records, contracts, and policies are maintained
• Oversee property administration including rent reviews, service charges, and business rates

Candidate Profile

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA)
• Significant post-qualification experience, ideally within an SME environment
• Background in retail, e-commerce, or consumer-facing sectors preferred
• Hands-on, commercially astute, and comfortable operating with autonomy
• Strong leadership, communication, and Board-level credibility
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery