Chief Financial Officer

Blair West are supporting a private equity-backed business to find a Chief Financial Officer. Experiencing rapid international growth, the company is expanding through an ambitious acquisition strategy. This newly created CFO position reports directly to the Managing Director and will sit on the Board, taking the lead on all financial and commercial matters and driving value through strategic M&A activity. The opportunity: Lead the M&A strategy from deal origination through to integration, aligning activity with the company’s wider growth objectives. Act as a key partner to the MD and Board in setting financial direction and delivering against key performance goals. Manage relationships with investors, banks, and legal partners, providing consistent and transparent updates. Oversee Board reporting and management information, ensuring financial data is actionable and insight-led. Collaborate with senior operational leaders to align financial planning with commercial delivery. Build and optimise cashflow forecasting and working capital models to support strategic investments. Shape the M&A framework, including financial modelling, due diligence, legal documentation, and post-acquisition integration plans. Develop the internal finance team, supporting a high-functioning department capable of driving acquisitions and business performance. Play a key role in positioning the business for a successful future exit. You'll be the ideal candidate for this position if you're someone who has: Experience as a CFO or senior finance leader within a private equity-backed environment. A recognised accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) and strong technical expertise. Demonstrated success in managing end-to-end M&A processes, including integration. Experience working in a fast-paced, evolving SME or mid-market business. A proven track record of developing finance teams and scaling systems to support growth. Strong commercial acumen and the ability to influence senior stakeholders and external partners. Skills in producing high-quality, decision-ready management information. A strategic and agile mindset, with a hands-on approach when required. A natural leadership presence, with the ability to contribute to a collaborative senior team. The Benefits Included with this Opportunity: Strategic ownership of M&A and a seat at the leadership table. Direct access to private equity investors and significant influence on the company’s future. Equity participation aligned to long-term growth outcomes. High level of autonomy in a business undergoing rapid expansion. Flexible working environment with regional travel as required. Our commitment: Blair West is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and inclusion at every stage of the recruitment process. We are committed to fairness, equality, and ongoing diversity training for our team to give our candidates and clients a feeling of belonging during their experience with us. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during their experience with us, please speak to their consultant.

Location: North West England, GB

Posted Date: 5/1/2025