This is a confidential search for a PE‑backed, rapidly scaling data services business generating sub £20m of revenue. The company is pursuing an ambitious growth strategy underpinned by a combination of strong organic momentum and targeted bolt‑on acquisitions within a data‑led, recurring revenue environment.
The business is seeking a highly hands‑on, operationally focused CFO / Finance Director to work closely with the CEO and Board. The role will be central to establishing best‑in‑class financial controls, professionalising processes, and building the financial infrastructure required to support accelerated growth, M&A activity and long‑term value creation.
Role Summary
The CFO will take full ownership of the finance function, leading financial strategy while operating as a highly practical Finance No.1. The successful candidate will build and embed a robust control environment, introduce discipline across reporting, cash management and forecasting, and implement scalable systems and analytics to support data‑driven decision‑making.
Working as a trusted partner to the CEO and Board, the CFO will support both organic growth initiatives and M&A execution, ensuring that the business remains well‑controlled, well‑informed and investment‑grade at all times.
Core Requirements
- Comfortable operating as a true Finance No.1 in SME PE‑backed environment
- Deep, hands‑on financial control background with strong technical capability
- Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, rigour and technical accounting knowledge
- End‑to‑end ownership of finance in a small / mid‑sized business environment, including:
- Strong finance systems experience
- Ability to develop analytics, KPIs and performance reporting to support the executive team
- Experience in B2B subscription, data, SaaS or managed services businesses
- Exposure to M&A, particularly post‑deal integration of bolt‑on acquisitions (finance, systems and controls)
- Track record of hiring, building and strengthening finance teams in growth environments
- ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CFA or equivalent professional qualification