Expected duration: More than 6 months About Us: Welcome to Alchemy & I, where we transform ordinary services into extraordinary experiences. We are a dynamic and rapidly expanding group of eight independent salons and spas, each operating as separate limited companies. We are passionate about what we do and are committed to delivering top-quality services to our clients. As we continue our exciting journey of growth, we are on the hunt for a Finance Manager who is driven, strategic, and ready to lead our financial transformation.
Why This Role is Critical: We are at a pivotal moment in our business. While we have seen growth and success, some of our businesses are currently loss-making, and we need urgent financial leadership to turn things around. We require someone who understands small and medium-sized businesses, thrives in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment, and can juggle multiple priorities effectively. This is an opportunity to make a real impact by helping to restructure, streamline, and set us on a path to profitability.
We are looking for someone who will work with us on a daily basis, becoming an integral part of our team. This is not just a remote advisory role—we need someone who is in the business with us, actively engaged in driving success. Given our existing structure, we estimate this role requires approximately 15-20 hours per week.
Role Overview: This is far more than a traditional finance role – we’re seeking a dynamic individual who embodies the qualities of a CFO while staying hands-on in their approach. You will drive success through detailed financial analysis, deep dives into operational metrics, and actionable insights to help our managers improve their teams. This role demands someone passionate about results, who thrives on challenges, and has a transformational mindset to elevate our finance department to new heights.
Key Responsibilities:
Act as a strategic partner to the CEO, providing financial leadership and insights to shape long-term business strategies.
Lead financial performance across all eight businesses, ensuring profitability, sustainable growth, and a streamlined financial structure.
Analyse financial statements, forecasts, and business performance metrics to deliver strategic recommendations.
Maintain and enhance our 12-week cash flow plan, ensuring it reflects evolving business needs.
Implement simplified cash flow planning for payroll and upcoming bills, ensuring financial health by checking against income and sales.
Set clear sales targets, measure performance against them, and support managers in driving revenue growth.
Produce management accounts with detailed commentary, providing leadership with actionable insights.
Ensure real-time financial data is updated weekly to keep costs accurate and under control.
Oversee intercompany transactions with precision and compliance, simplifying intercompany positions.
Liaise with HMRC when needed, including taking action, handling correspondence, and writing appeals.
Check weekly outgoings against required income, tracking breakeven figures and helping plan for profit margins.
Create and maintain spreadsheets that provide actionable insights for decision-making.
Work closely with in-house bookkeepers (including a full-time bookkeeper with an accountancy degree and a part-time bookkeeper) and external accountants to ensure impeccable financial records and adherence to regulations.
Produce clear, concise financial reports and presentations tailored to internal stakeholders.
Guide and mentor non-financial staff, helping them understand financial data and its implications.
Transform and modernise financial processes, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and profitability.
Handle multiple priorities effectively, demonstrating strong multitasking skills across businesses.
Qualifications:
Accountancy degree or equivalent qualification is essential.
Extensive experience in a similar role within small to medium-sized businesses, with a proven track record of driving financial success.
Advanced expertise in Xero and Excel, including financial modelling and data analysis.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a proactive and results-driven mindset.
Experience managing intercompany transactions and multi-entity financial structures.
Ability to communicate complex financial concepts in a clear and engaging manner.
Preferred Attributes:
Local to Berkhamsted or surrounding areas for regular in-person collaboration.
Strategic thinker with the ability to dive deep into details and implement solutions.
Passionate about transformation, with the flexibility to adapt to the business’s needs and drive success.
Collaborative and empowering, with strong communication and leadership skills.
Confident and decisive, with a track record of taking initiative and delivering results.
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