Head of Commercial Finance - PE Backed Insurance

THE SEARCH:

Altus Partners is retained by an ambitious disruptor in the insurance industry that has achieved significant growth in the past few years through both acquisitions and organically with an impressive EBITDA margin. Reporting to the CFO, you will be responsible for leading the commercial finance team, partnering with the Executive Team, and delivering actionable insights to support the business's ambitious growth and exit plans. This is a senior leadership role requiring a proactive, hands-on approach to financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, M&A and point of contact for the financial sponsors. It will also involve a broader remit and strengthening of control.

THE ROLE:

1. Support the private equity investors with relevant financial information, analyses, and reporting as required.
2. Data and Insights: Increase the level of business intelligence including building the right KPIs, trends, and forecasts that increase revenue, EBITDA, and cash flow.
3. Transformation: Key focus on driving a higher level of output and quality through FP&A, whilst ensuring effective processes and controls are implemented.
4. Business Partner with business unit leaders to provide financial insights and support strategic initiatives.
5. Own long-term financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes.
6. Develop and maintain complex financial models to project future financial performance and support strategic decision-making.
7. Identify and implement process improvements to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the FP&A function.
8. Provide strategic financial input to the executive team and private equity investors.
9. Support the CFO with data and key MI for the private equity investors, ensuring transparent and timely communication on financial updates, performance reports, and strategic initiatives.
10. Prepare comprehensive reports, dashboards, and presentations to effectively communicate financial analysis and recommendations to executive leadership.

THE REQUIREMENTS:

1. Proven track record as a Head of/AD/Senior Manager level commercial finance professional in a business with demonstrable growth and complexity (800 + FTE).
2. 8 years + PQ experience.
3. A strong finance education (ACA, ACCA, Chartered Accountant or CIMA qualified) and track record in senior finance roles within growth organisations.
4. Experience of working in Financial Services, preferably the insurance sector.
5. Previous experience in a top practice/accounting firm, or management consulting, transactions services or Corporate Finance.
6. Experience of financial modelling and excellent PowerPoint skills including managing the production of reports to a high standard.
7. Advanced knowledge of Excel and experience with financial software.
8. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey financial concepts to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.