Head of Finance (London)

Head of Finance, Hammersmith, Leisure, hybrid, 65k to 75k

Overview:
We are excited to partner with one of UK’s largest independent tour operators that specialises in holiday packages across top European and US destinations.

They are looking for a hands-on Head of Finance to lead a small team of 3 and report directly to the Managing Director. You will also possess advanced Excel skills and data analysis (Power BI/VBA) and have a good understanding of IT networks in order to manage this function of the company.

Direct experience in Travel is a plus but not essential for this role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the finance function, aligning financial operations with company objectives, and advising the MD and Board on strategy and profitability.
• Ensure accurate statutory reporting across the UK, France, and Austria in compliance with UK GAAP and local regulations; manage audits and tax compliance.
• Deliver monthly management accounts, KPI analysis, and profitability reports; provide insight on financial trends and support strategic decisions.
• Develop and manage budgets and forecasts in collaboration with the MD, analysing variances and recommending actions to meet financial goals.
• Oversee cash flow, working capital, and banking relationships to ensure liquidity and cost efficiency.
• Manage all core finance functions (payroll, ledgers, stock, revenue recognition) while ensuring robust internal controls and system improvements.
• Lead the IT function, ensuring systems effectively support financial operations, data security, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage and develop the finance (2.5 FTE) and IT (1 FTE) teams, setting goals, providing training, and fostering a high-performance culture.

What We’re Looking For:

• Qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Experience of being in a Finance Managerial role covering all areas of the finance function
• Experience of data management and reporting
• Advanced Excel skills, including complex formulae (e.g., VLOOKUP, IFERROR) and the ability to build and analyse pivot tables
• Programming skills, with experience in VBA for automation and process improvement
• A solid understanding of IT network systems
• Team player with strong numeracy and verbal communication skills
• Adaptable, solution-oriented, and able to thrive in fast-changing environments
• Experience within the travel industry or a related sector
• Proficiency in French and/or German is desirable.
• Advanced Programming skills ( eg Python )