Finance Director

Based in London (Nationwide Coverage)

Our client is a market-leading restaurant chain, offering diverse dining experiences. With a turnover exceeding £70m, the Group operates across multiple UK retail, delivery, and hospitality channels, providing both dine-in and home delivery services. As a vertically integrated business, the Group manages its supply chain from sourcing ingredients to serving customers. This control and continued investment in technology and automation have allowed the Group to secure a leading position in the UK restaurant sector.

Job Description

As Group Finance Director, you will be a key member of the senior leadership team, driving the company's financial strategy at an exciting time of rapid growth. With operations nationwide, the business is pursuing ambitious expansion plans focused on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to further increase its market share. A key priority of this role will be raising capital to support strategic acquisitions and the scaling of the restaurant chain.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Vision: Lead the Group Finance team to achieve financial objectives and drive the company's financial vision forward.
• Capital Raising: Play a central role in raising capital to support the group's M&A strategy, working closely with banks, investors, and financial institutions to secure funding.
• M&A Integration: Lead financial due diligence and the integration of acquired businesses, ensuring smooth transitions aligned with the Group's strategic goals.
• Strategic Partnership: Collaborate with the Group Chief Executive, Chairman, and other stakeholders on development planning, providing financial modeling and strategic insights.
• Financial Reporting: Ensure accurate, timely financial reporting that supports decision-making and complies with UK statutory requirements (PAYE, VAT, etc.).
• Budget Management: Oversee the annual budgeting process, ensuring submissions align with business objectives and expansion plans.
• Cashflow & Tax Strategy: Deliver comprehensive cashflow forecasting and minimize tax risks through an effective tax strategy.
• Process Improvement: Continuously refine and enhance financial processes to ensure efficiency and alignment with industry best practices.
• Stakeholder Relationships: Build and manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, financial institutions, and other key stakeholders.
• Company Secretarial Role: Fulfill the responsibilities of the Company Secretary, ensuring all statutory and regulatory obligations are met.

The Successful Applicant

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role, ideally within the restaurant, hospitality, or multi-site retail sector.
• Extensive experience in raising capital to fund M&A activity and business expansion.
• Strong track record in managing mergers and acquisitions, including financial due diligence and post-deal integration.
• Excellent strategic and analytical skills, with the ability to influence decision-making at the highest levels.
• In-depth knowledge of UK GAAP, IFRS, and statutory requirements, including tax and VAT compliance.
• Highly proficient in accounting software, ERP systems, and MS Office.
• ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent qualification.

What's on Offer

This is a unique opportunity to join a market-leading restaurant group at a pivotal stage in its growth journey. As Group Finance Director, you will play a critical role in shaping the company's financial strategy, driving capital-raising efforts, and supporting M&A ambitions. The role offers a competitive salary, equity, and the chance to work with a dynamic and motivated leadership team.