Commercial Finance Manager - AI Deeptech Start-up - London

Commercial Finance Manager (Lead) | AI Deeptech Start-up | London

Harmonic has been retained by one of the most exciting Deep-tech start-ups in Europe to secure their first finance hire. Their disruptive SaaS product is redefining innovation in the Life Sciences space, landing them Series A investment from a leading European Venture Capital Fund that has a track record of early investment into some of the biggest tech success stories of the last decade including Revolut & Wise.

Now on the verge of rapid expansion, they are looking for a Commercial Finance Lead to take them through their next phase of growth whilst elevating the strategic contribution of finance to the wider business.

The business has a genuinely values led culture with an incredibly bright senior leadership team made up of award-winning scientists and engineers, that promote empowerment, ownership and accountability. Subsequently, you'll be trusted to work autonomously with the wider support of a very dynamic and collaborative team around you. This is much more than an opportunity to join an AI business, but a chance to be at the forefront of multiple technological leaps which can change the shape of human history.

The Role

As a commercial partner to the leadership team, the Commercial Finance Manager will work closely with the Founder and Executive team, as well as external advisors, to deliver high-quality financial insights and support data-driven decision-making. This is a high-impact, strategic finance role with the opportunity to shape the function with scope for progression into an FD/CFO role in the future.

Commercial Finance

• Support the Founder/CEO with board materials and investor updates.
• Deliver high-quality management information and performance KPIs.
• Review monthly financials with the Exec team, providing commercial insight and recommendations.
• Manage banking relationships and optimize cash yield post-Series A.
• Oversee working capital, including receivables, payables, and cashflow.
• Lead procurement and vendor management to ensure cost efficiency and value for money.
• Enforce cost discipline and expenditure control in line with budget priorities.

Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)

• Maintain and enhance financial forecasting and budgeting models.
• Lead monthly budget vs. actual reviews with leadership.
• Support scenario planning and business case development for strategic initiatives.
• Oversee procurement policy compliance and cost control.
• Provide commercial insight on pricing, profitability, and market expansion opportunities.

Business Partnering & Growth Support

• Support expansion initiatives, including pricing analysis, product economics, and new market entry.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to drive data-informed decision-making.

Monthly Close & Financial Reporting

• Oversee the monthly close process with the outsourced accounting partner.
• Ensure accurate and timely invoicing of all SaaS and service revenues.
• Manage financial compliance (tax, R&D claims, VAT, share options, HMRC reporting).

Requirements

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) preferred.
• Proven experience in a high-growth start-up or tech environment.
• Highly collaborative and strong business partnering skills with the ability to build relationship with colleagues across different departments.
• Ability to be dynamic and operate both as part of a team and autonomously when necessary.
• Ability to be hands-on in your approach, not shying away from getting down in the detail when necessary.
• Extremely analytical mindset with a high attention to detail.

Bonus experience:

• Previous experience in SaaS, AI or Deeptech space

At Harmonic, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and assure you that every candidate will be thoughtfully considered for the roles we represent, without regard to race, religion, gender expression, disability, or sexual orientation.