Group Finance Director - FRS Ltd : Job Details

Our client is a dynamic SME Group of Companies with broad UK and International Interests across within the Manufacturing, Engineering and Property Sector.

As part of the Groups continued expansion, FRS have been enlisted to assist with the recruitment of a Group Finance Director to join the Holding Company.

Working closely with the Chairman the Holding Company oversees a portfolio of assets, currently mainly relating to a group of operating companies within the Manufacturing & Engineering areas, as well as freehold properties carved out from the operating companies.

The holding company is entering a period of strategic transition, focusing on optimising its property holdings, executing bolt-on acquisitions and enhancing portfolio allocation to maximise long-term value for shareholders.

Role Overview

The Group Finance Director will provide strategic and operational financial leadership for the holding company managing all aspects of portfolio allocation, bolt-on acquisitions (including distressed opportunities) and the integration of new investments.

The role includes investigating and evaluating long-term supply agreements and commodity hedging strategies, leading the adoption of digital technologies in financial processes, overseeing comprehensive monthly trend analysis and reporting on all investments, while ensuring the continuous development of the Finance team within the operating companies.

The Group Finance Director will ensure robust financial governance, drive value creation and support the Company’s growth and restructuring objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Financial Leadership

o Lead all financial aspects of the Company, including investments, property portfolios and carved-out entities, as directed by the board

o Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the Company’s

objectives, including bolt-on acquisitions, portfolio allocation, M&A, divestitures, and restructuring, as directed by the board

o Oversee budgeting, forecasting and management reporting to provide actionable insights for decision-making by the board

o Support the development and management of a network of financial advisers and intermediaries, including tax specialists, to support the board’s search for new investment opportunities

M&A, Bolt-On Acquisitions & Portfolio Allocation

o Oversee financial due diligence, valuation and financial integration of acquisitions, with a particular focus on bolt-on and distressed company opportunities.

o Support the identification and execution of value-accretive acquisitions and portfolio rebalancing.

o Manage selective divestitures and carve-outs as required, ensuring alignment with broader portfolio strategy.

o Oversee the allocation of capital across the portfolio to optimise risk-adjusted returns.

Financial Modelling and Analysis

o Build and maintain integrated financial models for all investments, including scenario analysis and sensitivity testing for property and business unit performance.

o Critique and prepare cash flow forecasts for banks and other stakeholders, including modelling the cash flow impact of factory consolidations and other operational changes.

Supply Agreements & Commodity Hedging Strategies

o Manage supply agreements and commodity hedging strategies to ensure optimal terms and alignment with the Company’s strategic and financial objectives.

o Liaise with suppliers, consultants, and internal stakeholders to assess cost efficiency, risk exposure, and long-term value in procurement and hedging activities.

Digital Technologies in Finance

o Support our in-house developers in the creation, improvement and implementation of digital technologies to automate financial accounting practices, invoice processing, and related functions.

o Drive adoption of digital tools to improve efficiency, accuracy, and insight in financial operations.

Monthly Trend Analysis & Reporting

o Conduct detailed monthly trend analysis on all investments, reporting on changes in value, yield, and returns.

o Prepare and present monthly reports on Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) for each investment and at the consolidated group level.

o Track and report monthly cash management improvements, highlighting actions taken to improve working capital and enhance ROCE.

o Present actionable insights and recommendations to the Board and stakeholders, identifying underperforming assets and opportunities for reinvestment, bolt-on acquisitions, or divestment.

Finance Team Development

o Manage, mentor and develop the Finance team within the operating companies, which consists of a Financial Controller, Senior Accounts Assistant and two Junior Accounts Assistants.

o Foster an environment of continuous learning, ensuring team members are regularly up-skilled and supported in their career development.

o Implement structured training, coaching and professional development plans tailored to individual and team needs.

o Encourage knowledge sharing, cross-training, and exposure to new technologies and best practices in finance.

Stakeholder Management

o Act as the primary finance contact for external advisers, banks, auditors, and tax consultants, ensuring effective communication and negotiation on all financial matters.

o Review and challenge year-end statutory accounts, tax calculations and cash flow reconciliations.

Governance and Compliance

o Ensure robust internal controls, compliance with relevant regulations and timely completion of audits and tax filings.

o Oversee risk management and implement best practices in financial operations.

The ideal candidate will be formally qualified (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) with at least 5+ years experience operating at Finance Director level either within Manufacturing / Engineering or Private Family Office / Investment Group with exposure across Manufacturing, real estate and complex investment structures.