Head of Finance

Job Title: Head of Finance (12-Month Contract)

Location: London, Hybrid

Hours: Part-Time, 3 days per week

Reporting To: Finance Director

Salary: £70-75k FTE / £42-25k pro-rated

Start Date: ASAP

About Us

We are a pioneering insect farm developer based in the UK, innovating sustainable solutions in food and agriculture through insect-based protein and patented technology. As we transition from a technology-focused R&D phase into full commercialisation, we are seeking a technically strong and experienced Head of Finance to join our team. This is a rare opportunity to help shape the financial future of a high-impact, scale-up business operating at the forefront of sustainable agriculture.

The Role

As Head of Finance, you will be responsible for building and leading a robust finance function to support our next phase of growth. This includes overseeing all financial planning and reporting activities, ensuring strong governance and compliance, and working closely with the executive team and fractional Finance Director to develop commercial strategies and support fundraising efforts.

Contract:

This is a 12-month contract position, on a part-time basis working 3 days per week with at least one day per week based in our office in London Bridge.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead financial planning and analysis (FP&A) to support strategic decision-making across the business
• Work closely with the commercial and legal teams to structure and review contracts, with a strong understanding of revenue recognition and risk
• Oversee the preparation of monthly management accounts, KPIs and board and investor reportingN
• Oversee the preparation of statutory accounts and ensure compliance with UK GAAP/IFRS
• Line manage and oversee the development of the Finance Officer, providing support, guidance and mentorship to help them achieve their full potential
• Appoint and manage the relationship with external auditors, leading the company through its first formal audit
• Develop and maintain robust cashflow forecasting and cash management processes
• Design and manage the annual budgeting and forecasting processes in partnership with the Director of Strategy
• Ensure strong financial controls, systems and processes are in place
• Support capital raising activities (debt and equity) and liaise with external investors and financial stakeholders
• Manage company reserves in multi-currency, hedging FX exposures
• Provide financial insight and leadership to the executive team and board

Key Skills & Experience

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Proven experience in a fast-growing, venture-backed or technology-driven business
• Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards and statutory reporting Knowledge of and experience with internal, external and statutory audit requirements
• Deep understanding of cash and budget management
• Excellent financial modelling and analysis skills
• Experience of managing multi-currency banking systems
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to influence contract structure and pricing strategies
• Experience with ERP systems and improving finance processes
• Confident communicator and stakeholder manager, able to clearly explain complex financial topics to non-finance people
• Knowledge of R&D tax credits and government grant funding
• Experience engaging at every level of business from board members and investors to operational teams.

Desirable (Not Essential)

• Experience in agri-tech, food production, manufacturing or clean-tech sectors
• Exposure to ESG reporting or sustainable finance initiatives

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a business with purpose and impact - redefining sustainable protein production
• Join an innovative and supportive team passionate about food systems and the planet
• Shape the financial future of a scale-up on the cusp of commercial success
• Competitive salary and benefits including private healthcare (with dental / optical cover), a range of additional perks, and generous holidays.

If this sounds like the role for you, please submit your CV today.

Unfortunately visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Recruitment agencies are kindly requested not to contact us for this position.