Harper May Ltd

Harper May is partnering with a leading education group that is seeking an experienced Finance Director to lead its financial operations and strategic planning.With a diverse set of educational programmes and a commitment to long-term sustainability, the group is looking for a senior finance leader to strengthen controls, drive operational efficiency, and support strategic development across the organisation. Role Overview: As Finance Director, you will be responsible for the leadership and delivery of all financial planning, reporting, and compliance activities.You will work closely with the executive leadership team to shape financial strategy, oversee key improvement projects, and ensure robust financial management across the group. Key Responsibilities: Lead all financial operations including monthly management accounts, forecasting, and year-end statutory accounts Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory frameworks, funding body requirements, and audit standards Oversee budgeting, planning, and financial monitoring processes across departments Deliver effective internal reporting, financial insight, and business analysis to support strategic goals Maintain and develop strong internal controls, financial systems, and procedures Manage balance sheet control, VAT and corporation tax compliance, and fixed asset management Act as a key point of contact for external auditors, tax advisors, and funding bodies Lead and develop the finance team, setting clear performance objectives and supporting professional development Partner with cross-functional teams on business improvement initiatives, systems upgrades, and process enhancements Key Requirements: ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified with significant post-qualified experience Strong leadership experience within education, public sector, or a regulated organisation Proven track record of delivering management and statutory reporting in a complex, multi-stakeholder environment Experience in financial planning, budgeting, and performance monitoring Strong working knowledge of tax compliance, audit preparation, and financial governance Excellent Excel and systems skills; experience with ERP platforms is advantageous Clear, confident communicator with the ability to influence at senior and Board level Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams and support organisation-wide change initiatives

Our client is a design-led retail brand with a growing footprint both in-store and online.Known for their creative edge and commitment to customer experience, the business has carved out a strong position in a competitive market.As they continue to scale and diversify, they are seeking a commercially astute CFO to join the executive team and lead the financial strategy through this exciting growth phase. Role Overview: This is a key leadership role, reporting directly to the CEO and Board.The CFO will be responsible for shaping financial direction, optimising performance, and ensuring robust financial governance.The successful candidate will bring deep retail sector experience and the ability to balance strategic vision with operational precision in a dynamic, creative environment. Key Responsibilities: Drive the development of financial strategy and long-term planning aligned with commercial goals Lead investor communications and oversee capital planning, funding, and stakeholder engagement Manage and grow the finance team, embedding efficiency and performance-led culture Collaborate with senior leadership on growth initiatives, product development, and brand expansion Build and maintain scalable financial systems, controls, and reporting structures Own the budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management processes Provide actionable insights and performance analysis to support strategic decisions Oversee production of accurate financial reports and ensure full compliance with accounting standards Monitor tax exposure and ensure compliance with all statutory obligations Key Requirements: ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified or equivalent, with extensive retail sector experience Proven success in finance leadership within a fast-paced, brand-driven business Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate data into commercial insight Excellent communication and stakeholder management across all business levels Track record of leading and developing high-performing finance teams Experience in creative, consumer-facing sectors highly desirable Strong systems knowledge, financial modelling skills, and a hands-on approach

Harper May is partnering with an ambitious and fast-growing technology start-up that is redefining its sector through innovation and scalability.As the company moves into its next phase of growth, they are seeking a commercially focused and hands-on Head of Finance to lead the finance function and help shape the strategic direction of the business. Role Overview: The Head of Finance will be a key member of the leadership team, responsible for driving financial performance, establishing strong controls, and ensuring the business is well positioned for scale.This is a unique opportunity to join a forward-thinking start-up and play a central role in building a finance function that supports long-term growth. Key Responsibilities: Collaborate with founders and senior leadership to drive financial strategy and support business planning Lead on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and scenario analysis across the business Build out financial systems, reporting frameworks, and internal controls suitable for a high-growth environment Oversee monthly and annual reporting cycles, ensuring timely and accurate insights are delivered to stakeholders Provide commercial input on product launches, funding rounds, and strategic investments Develop and mentor a small finance team, fostering a performance-led and collaborative culture Lead on investor reporting, board presentations, and key stakeholder communication Prepare financial models, business cases, and support due diligence activities for future funding or partnerships Key Requirements: ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified or equivalent Experience in a start-up, scale-up, or high-growth tech environment is highly desirable Strong commercial and technical finance skills with the ability to operate strategically and tactically Confident building and improving finance functions, systems, and reporting processes from the ground up Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence across the business Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment with shifting priorities Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with financial planning tools and accounting platforms

Harper May is partnering with a forward-thinking company at the forefront of the entertainment industry, seeking a commercially driven and experienced Head of Finance to join their leadership team. With rapid growth and exciting ventures on the horizon, this is a standout opportunity to influence financial direction within a dynamic and creative business. Role Overview: As Head of Finance, you will play a central role in shaping financial strategy and guiding operational decision-making. Working closely with the executive team, you will drive performance, manage reporting cycles, and ensure financial integrity across all areas of the organisation. This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for a finance professional ready to contribute to both strategic direction and day-to-day excellence. Key Responsibilities: Partner with the Board to align financial performance with business objectives and long-term strategy Lead and develop a growing finance team, embedding a culture of accountability and progression Oversee reporting cycles, delivering timely, accurate, and insightful financial analysis Strengthen systems and controls to ensure compliance and scalability across a growing operation Guide budgeting, forecasting, and scenario planning in collaboration with wider teams Advise on business plans and key initiatives, offering financial insight across the organisation Maintain strong relationships with external partners and stakeholders Prepare and present annual financial statements and reports to investors and leadership Key Requirements: ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified or equivalent Proven experience in a senior finance role, ideally within the entertainment or creative sectors Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage and mentor high-performing teams Excellent communication skills and a proactive, collaborative approach Comfortable working at pace with a high level of accuracy and commercial focus Advanced Excel skills and a data-led mindset

Harper May is partnering with an ambitious media company that is seeking a dynamic Chief Financial Officer to lead the finance function through its next phase of growth, including a planned IPO. With a strong brand presence and expanding global reach, the business requires a commercially driven and strategically minded finance leader to guide it through the demands of scaling and public market readiness. Role Overview: The CFO will be a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for shaping financial strategy, building a scalable finance infrastructure, and ensuring the company is fully prepared for a successful IPO. The role will combine operational leadership with strategic oversight, providing critical financial insight to drive business performance and future expansion. Key Responsibilities: Lead the financial strategy and planning process, ensuring alignment with the company's long-term growth objectives Prepare and deliver all financial elements required for a successful IPO, including financial reporting, governance frameworks, and investor readiness Oversee corporate finance activities including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and risk management Manage relationships with external advisors, auditors, investment banks, and legal counsel throughout the IPO process Build and enhance financial controls, compliance frameworks, and reporting standards suitable for a public company environment Drive commercial decision-making across the business, providing financial analysis and strategic insights to the Board and leadership team Develop and mentor a high-performing finance team capable of supporting a listed business Oversee ongoing investor relations post-IPO, including financial reporting, market communications, and regulatory compliance Key Requirements: ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified with significant post-qualified experience Proven track record as a CFO or senior finance leader within high-growth media, entertainment, or creative industries Direct experience of taking a company through an IPO or significant public market transaction Strong understanding of corporate governance, financial controls, and public reporting requirements Excellent leadership and stakeholder management skills, with experience operating at Board level Commercially minded with a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of scaling businesses Exceptional communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships with investors, advisors, and internal teams

Our client, a leading innovator in the leisure and hospitality sector, is currently seeking a talented and experienced Senior Management Accountant to join their dynamic team. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in financial operations, supporting the strategic direction of a growing organisation. About the Company: Our client is renowned for delivering exceptional services in the leisure and hospitality industry. They are committed to providing memorable experiences to customers, with a strong focus on innovation and excellence across their operations. With ambitious growth plans, they are looking for an experienced Senior Management Accountant to help guide their financial strategy and support operational efficiency. Role Overview: The Senior Management Accountant will be an integral part of the finance team, overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and providing valuable insights to senior management. The role will involve managing financial performance, identifying opportunities for cost control, and ensuring alignment with organisational goals. Key Responsibilities: Prepare monthly management accounts, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow forecasts. Analyse financial performance and variances against budgets and forecasts, providing insights and recommendations to management. Monitor and control costs, identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements and cost savings. Assist in the annual budgeting and forecasting process, collaborating with department heads to develop realistic financial plans. Conduct regular financial reviews with department managers to ensure alignment with budgetary targets and strategic goals. Prepare and present financial reports and analysis to senior management, highlighting key trends and performance indicators. Support internal and external audits, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations. Participate in ad hoc projects and initiatives as required, contributing financial expertise and insights. Requirements: ACA/ACCA/CIMA Qualified. Significant experience as a Management Accountant, preferably within the leisure and hospitality sector. Strong understanding of financial principles and accounting standards. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to communicate complex financial information effectively to non-financial stakeholders. Strong attention to detail and the ability to work accurately under pressure.

Our client, a leading recruitment company, is seeking an experienced Senior Finance Business Partner to drive financial performance and strategic decision-making. This is a key role within a fast-paced, high-growth environment, offering the opportunity to work closely with senior stakeholders and influence business strategy. Role Overview: The Senior Finance Business Partner will be responsible for delivering financial analysis, supporting commercial decision-making, and partnering with operational teams to enhance business performance. This is a hybrid role, requiring a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on financial management. Key Responsibilities: Provide financial insight and strategic recommendations to senior leadership and operational teams. Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes. Analyse financial performance, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement. Partner with key business units to drive revenue growth and cost efficiencies. Develop financial models to support business decisions and commercial negotiations. Ensure financial governance and compliance with regulatory requirements. Work closely with non-finance teams to enhance financial understanding across the organisation. Contribute to business transformation projects and process improvements. Qualifications & Skills: ACA/ACCA/CIMA Qualified Accountant. Strong experience in financial business partnering, ideally within a recruitment or professional services environment. Proven commercial acumen with the ability to influence decision-making. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels. Proficiency in financial systems and data analysis tools. Open, collaborative, and results-driven mindset.

Finance Director - Media & Events Company Harper May is currently working with a leading Media & Events company based in Central London. The company are currently seeking a Finance Director to lead their team. This company is at the forefront of their industry and is planning rapid growth, increasing their staff fourfold in the next 6 months. The Finance Director will have a position of responsibility, offering guidance and overseeing the day-to-day running of the finance function whilst leading at a strategic level. The successful candidate will be fully qualified and must have prior digital marketing experience. Key Responsibilities: Oversee the financial operations reporting to group CFO Manage the finance team to meet month end reporting requirements Obtain and maintain a thorough understanding of the financial reporting and general ledger structure. Assist in accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and year end close. Ensure the timely reporting of all monthly financial information. Supports budget and forecasting activities. Monitors and analyses department work to develop more efficient procedures and use of resources while maintaining a high level of accuracy. Advise staff regarding the handling of non-routine reporting transactions as needed. Development and implementation of new procedures and features to enhance the workflow of the department. Provide training to new and existing staff as needed. Support Director with special projects and workflow process improvements as required. Manage the accounting team. Qualifications/Skills ACA / ACCA / CIMA Qualified or equivalent Proven experience in finance management. Media sector experience preferred Good communication skills. Strong leadership qualities. Excellent interpersonal skills. Sound knowledge of accounting fundamentals. Auditing experience. Compliance oriented. Proficiency in accounting software. Analytical skills.

Our client is a prominent player in the UK retail market, known for their dedication to delivering exceptional customer service and innovative products. With an extensive network of stores and a growing online presence, they are committed to maintaining their competitive edge. They are currently seeking a strategic and dynamic CFO to join their executive team based in Central London and drive financial excellence. Role Overview: As the CFO, you will be an integral member of the leadership team, responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the company. You will play a crucial role in shaping the financial strategy, driving sustainable growth, and ensuring the fiscal health of the organisation. This position requires a forward-thinking leader with a strong background in retail, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to navigate complex financial landscapes. Key Responsibilities: To prepare a corporate strategy and annual business plan to ensure that the company attains its objectives as cost-effectively and efficiently as possible Liaise with Investors and be central to fundraising plans Manage the finance team efficiently and aid in development Work with the CEO & Board on the strategic vision including forecasting and cultivating stakeholder relationships Participating and developing new business opportunities for the group Ensuring that adequate controls are installed and maintained Provide the board with an operating budget and working closely to ensure pragmatic success Oversee the management and coordination of all fiscal activities for the organisation including revenue/expense and balance sheet reports Monitor banking activities of the organisation Oversee the production of monthly reports as well as financial statements and cash flow projections Review and monitoring of Group tax position, calculations and filings Desired Skills and Experience: Fully qualified ACA / ACCA / CIMA would be advantageous Must have extensive experience in leading and developing finance functions Strong technical accounting skills are highly desirable Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Previous experience of managing and developing staff Ability to work with a high level of accuracy and meet strict deadlines Ability to work in a fast paced and dynamic environment Excellent Excel skills What We Offer: Be part of a dynamic and innovative company that is a leader in the UK retail industry. Play a key role in shaping the future of the company and driving significant impact. Work with a talented and passionate team dedicated to excellence and growth. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

Harper May is exclusively working with one of the world's best events companies. Using some of the most advanced theatrical technologies, this company has exploded with popularity since it was founded. Offering a generous £26,000 for a 6 month fixed term contract as an Accounts Payable. The company is offering fantastic travel and progression opportunities, you'll be working with well known people among the media industry. With a strong presence in consumer social responsibility this company is continually growing in popularity. JOB DUTIES Review and verify invoices and check requests Sort, code and match invoices Set invoices up for payment Track expenses and process expense reports Prepare and process electronic transfers and payments Post transactions to journals, ledgers and other records Reconcile accounts payable transactions Prepare analysis of accounts Monitor accounts to ensure payments are up to date Research and resolve invoice discrepancies and issues Maintain vendor files Correspond with vendors and respond to inquiries Produce monthly reports Assist with month end closing Provide supporting documentation for audits JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Intermediate Excell Skills Great organization skills Great with numbers Ability to analyse numbers

Financial Controller - Consultancy Company An exciting Consultancy firm based in Teddington is looking for a talented Finance Controller to join their expert team. The company has a rich history and has worked with some of the nation's most iconic brands. Key Responsibilities for the Financial Controller: As Financial Controller you will be producing full management account packs. Working closely with the Managing Director in project based work, including providing ad-hoc analysis as required. Leading the budgeting and re-forecasting processes. Producing and analysing P&L reports. Managing and mentoring a team of two junior accountants. Balance sheet and bank reconciliation. Desired Skills and Experience: ACA/ACCA/CIMA fully qualified. Must have Media Production Must have SAP experience Lastly if you are looking for a Financial Controller role within the Consultancy Industry this is a fantastic role for you.

Finance Manager - Tech Company Harper May is currently working with one of the UK's leading technology companies, based in Central London. Specialising in SaaS, my client works with some of the biggest companies in the UK and have become an industry leader in their field. As a result of their tremendous recent success, they are searching for a Finance Manager to join their ever-growing team. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow personally and professionally with one of the country's most ambitious and dynamic technology firms. Key Responsibilities for the Finance Manager: As Finance Manager you will be business partnering/developing business partner relationships Monthly and quarterly reporting pack and control account reconciliations Management Accounts - budget variance commentary and process Owning the month end and year-end processes. Preparing the yearly budget alongside business unit managers Reviewing balance sheets - ensuring clarity and accuracy of reconciliations Desired Skills & Experience: Been a previous Finance Manager ACA/CIMA/ACCA qualified Prior technology experience Educated to degree level. Lastly if you are looking for a finance manager role within tech this is a fantastic role for you.

Our client is a dynamic and unique telecommunications and security company based in the West End of London. The company has grown rapidly and globally and is now looking for a Finance Transformation Manager support and lead in areas of efficiency and process improvement. Key Responsibilities, Desired Skills and Experience Requirements: Experience working with implementing new system software to a larger organization. Maintenance of implemented systems Oversee various finance projects Project manage cost efficiency projects Reporting on timelines on exisitng Experience training staff on a new system Must be analytically focused. Experience in a consultancy role would be beneficial