Job Title: Part-Time CFO (initially 2 days or 4 half-days a month growing over time)
Location: Cambridge, UK (Office-Based with Flexible Working Hours)
Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Part-Time Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our team for approximately four half-days per month. This role is ideal for a seasoned finance professional who is looking for a flexible work arrangement while having a significant impact on the financial health and strategic direction of a growing tech business. Based in our Cambridge office, this role offers flexibility in working hours to accommodate your schedule.
The Part-Time CFO will take the lead on key financial operations, including monthly close processes, preparation of annual accounts, statutory returns, and tax filings, while providing strategic insights and financial leadership across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Financial Strategy: Develop and execute financial strategies that align with business goals and ensure profitability and sustainability.
- Month-End Close: Oversee the month-end close process, ensuring accurate and timely preparation of financial statements.
- Annual Accounts: Lead the preparation of annual financial accounts in compliance with UK accounting standards and regulations.
- Tax Compliance & Returns: Prepare and file annual tax returns, ensuring full compliance with tax laws and regulations. Advise on tax planning and efficiency strategies.
- Pension Scheme Management: Monitor and advise on company pensions planning.
- Annual Returns: Support the preparation and submission of annual returns to Companies House and other regulatory bodies.
- Financial Reporting: Prepare financial reports, budgets, forecasts, and analysis to provide clear insights into the company’s financial performance.
- Cash Flow Management: Monitor and manage cash flow, ensuring the business has adequate working capital to meet its operational needs.
- Risk Management: Identify and mitigate financial risks, offering strategic guidance on capital structure, investments, and business growth.
- Stakeholder Management: Manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, and financial institutions.
- Strategic Advisory: Provide advice and insights on financial matters to support decision-making at the senior leadership level.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience as a CFO, Finance Director, or in a similar senior finance role, ideally within a high growth tech startup business.
- In-depth knowledge of corporate finance, accounting principles, tax laws, and UK financial reporting standards.
- Experience in managing the month-end close process, preparing annual accounts, tax returns, and statutory filings.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to present financial information in an accessible way to non-financial stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a flexible, part-time role.
- Relevant qualifications (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or similar) are required.
- Proficiency with financial software tools (e.g., Xero, Freeagent, Excel, ERP systems etc).
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with an eye for detail.
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities within limited time frames.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet deadlines and maintain accuracy.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to provide financial insights that drive business decisions.
- Self-motivated and proactive with the ability to work autonomously.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Compensation and Benefits:
Competitive salary, commensurate with experience. 25 days per annum annual leave pro-rated. Workplace pension scheme.
