Finance Director

As we continue to grow, we are seeking a dynamic, strategic, and hands-on Finance Director to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to establish and shape the financial infrastructure of a rapidly expanding organisation. You will play a pivotal role in setting up the finance function while driving financial strategy to ensure the long-term success and growth of Free Soul.

As the first in-house Finance Director, you will be responsible for establishing and managing all financial operations for Free Soul. This role requires an individual who can balance strategic leadership with a hands-on approach, rolling up their sleeves to set up systems, processes, and frameworks from the ground up. You will work closely with the Senior team to create a financial roadmap that supports Free Soul's mission and growth, while laying the foundation for the finance function's future scalability.

What you'll be doing:

Establishing Financial Infrastructure:

• Build and set up the finance function from scratch, including the establishment of financial processes, systems, and reporting frameworks.
• Implement financial systems (ERP, accounting software) and tools to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.
• Create and standardise financial policies, procedures, and controls that align with the company's growth objectives.

Strategic Financial Leadership:

• Collaborate with the executive team to develop long-term financial strategies that support Free Soul's mission and vision.
• Provide strategic financial insights and guidance to senior leadership on key decisions, helping to shape business priorities and future growth.
• Drive budget planning, forecasting, and resource allocation to ensure the company meets its financial goals.

Financial Planning & Analysis:

• Lead the budgeting and forecasting process, working closely with other departments to align financial goals with business objectives.
• Analyse financial performance, identify trends, and provide actionable insights to improve profitability and efficiency.
• Develop and maintain key financial metrics, ensuring that the company is meeting its financial targets and making data-driven decisions.

Hands-on Financial Management:

• Manage day-to-day accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger management.
• Oversee cash flow management, ensure liquidity, and manage working capital to support day-to-day operations.
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with tax regulations, accounting standards, and financial reporting requirements.
• Establish and maintain internal controls to mitigate financial risks and protect company assets.
• Oversee external audits, liaising with auditors and tax advisers as needed.

What we're looking for:

• Proven experience as a Finance Director, CFO, or similar senior financial leadership role, ideally in a fast-growing organisation.
• Experience in a D2C ecommerce business is preferable
• Strong knowledge of financial management, accounting principles, tax regulations, and business law.
• Experience with financial modelling, forecasting, and data-driven decision-making.
• Expertise in cash flow management, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Experience with ERP systems, financial software, and business intelligence tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and influence at all levels.
• A qualified ACA accountant is preferred

What you'll get in return

• Adjustable working around core working hours of 10:00-4:00
• Free Soul product pantry - access to a variety of FS products in the office
• Your monthly FS essentials - free!
• 30% friends and family discount
• Hybrid working: 3 days in the office per week
• Dog-friendly office
• Access to Vitality health insurance
• Monthly team socials, lunch & learns and internal events
• Work laptop and full desk set-up
• Pension plan
• A brand-new office environment, designed to be an inspiring place to work, collaborate and grow