Interim Chief Financial Officer

Stanton House is exclusively partnering with a rapidly growing, privately owned FMCG business in the South West of England generating £100M in revenue. The business is preparing for a sale to Private Equity and is seeking an experienced Interim CFO to manage both BAU financial operations and lead the strategic elements of the PE sale process.

Role overview:

This role will require a strong leader capable of managing daily financial activities, preparing the business for the sale, and working closely with external advisors to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in leading businesses through complex exits and will bring both operational expertise and strategic vision to the role.

Key Responsibilities:

Business-as-Usual Financial Leadership:

• Oversee and manage the finance function, ensuring the smooth operation of accounting, financial reporting, and budgeting processes.
• Prepare accurate financial reports, forecasts, and budgets for senior management and shareholders.
• Drive continuous improvements in financial processes and ensure robust financial controls are maintained.
• Manage a team of 13

Preparation for Sale to Private Equity:

• Lead the preparation of all financial documentation and reporting materials required for the sale process to Private Equity.
• Manage the data room, ensuring all relevant financial, legal, and operational documents are organised, accurate, and accessible.
• Collaborate with external advisors, legal teams, and consultants to manage the sale process, ensuring key milestones are met and the business is positioned for a successful exit.
• Advise on financial structuring, tax implications, and corporate governance to optimise the sale outcome.
• Act as the main point of contact for all financial matters related to the PE sale, ensuring alignment between stakeholders and advisors.

Stakeholder Management:

• Work closely with senior management and shareholders to align on key exit milestones and ensure the business is positioned for a successful transaction.
• Engage with external advisors and investors to ensure smooth communication and coordination throughout the sale process.
• Provide strategic financial insights to the leadership team, supporting decision-making and ensuring the business is prepared for investor expectations.

Financial Modelling & Due Diligence:

• Lead the development of financial models and projections to align with the sale strategy and PE expectations.
• Manage the financial due diligence process, ensuring all relevant data is thorough, accurate, and ready for review.
• Adapt financial models and forecasts based on due diligence findings and market feedback.

To be suitable for this role, you must have the following:

• Proven experience as a CFO or in a senior finance leadership role in an FMCG business
• Strong experience in managing the sale of a privately owned business to Private Equity, including data room management, due diligence, and coordination with external advisors.
• Deep understanding of the financial processes involved in preparing a business for sale, including business valuation, deal structuring, and tax considerations.
• Demonstrated success in managing financial operations for a business with £100M+ in revenue, particularly during periods of growth and exit preparation.
• Experience working closely with external advisors, legal teams, and Private Equity investors in the context of a transaction.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage with senior leadership, shareholders, and external advisors.

Availability to work 3 days per week in the South West of the UK (location tbc on the phone) starting in April 2025.

If you believe you meet the criteria outlined above, we encourage you to apply. This is an outside IR35 engagement, offering a competitive day rate in the range of £1000pd - £1250pd