Location: Onsite – Bristol, UK Reports To: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sector: Professional Services / Project-Based Industry About Us: Our client is a fast-growing SME in the services industry, poised for rapid expansion through strategic acquisitions and organic scaling. As they navigate an ambitious growth trajectory—aiming to double turnover year-on-year—we are seeking a dynamic, experienced, and humble Chief Financial Officer to lead their financial strategy, operational scalability, and M&A initiatives. Role Summary: The CFO will be a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for shaping and executing financial strategy to support the company's aggressive growth plans. You will bring a balance of strategic vision and operational discipline, with proven experience in M&A, project accounting, team building, and exit readiness. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Financial Leadership: Lead financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting to support business growth. Drive the financial strategy and M&A roadmap (build and buy), ensuring value creation. Work closely with the CEO and executive team to align financial goals with business objectives. M&A and Exit Strategy: Lead due diligence, integration, and post-acquisition financial performance. Prepare the business for potential exit scenarios (trade sale, PE investment, etc.). Ensure robust financial controls and processes are in place for investor readiness. Project Accounting & Operational Finance: Oversee project-based accounting and revenue recognition across large-scale service projects. Implement performance tracking frameworks aligned with project lifecycles and profitability. Develop robust financial systems and controls for a scalable, multi-entity structure. Leadership & Team Building: Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing finance team in a non-hierarchical, collaborative culture. Champion continuous improvement, fostering agility and innovation in a dynamic environment. Act as a partner to business units, ensuring finance is embedded in operational decision-making. Requirements: Essential: Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA or equivalent). Demonstrable experience as CFO or senior financial leader in a high-growth SME. Proven M&A execution experience, including due diligence, integration, and strategic alignment. Background in the services industry with exposure to project accounting and large-scale contracts. Track record of leading a business through a successful exit. Experience in scaling businesses – ideally doubling or significantly growing revenues in short timeframes. Comfortable in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, and evolving environment. Desirable: Experience in private equity-backed or founder-led businesses. Strong operational mindset with ability to roll up sleeves when required. Confident, yet humble leader who thrives in non-hierarchical, collaborative teams. What our client Offers: Opportunity to lead a high-growth business through an exciting transformation. Direct influence on business strategy and outcomes. Autonomy, ownership, and room to build a world-class finance function from the ground up. A culture that values curiosity, integrity, and transparency. Application Process: If you’re ready to lead with impact, scale with vision, and leave a legacy in a purpose-driven, fast-moving business, we’d love to hear from you.