Purpose
The Finance Director will lead the finance function of Sweet Project Holdings Limited, providing strategic and operational financial leadership. The role involves overseeing financial planning, risk management, reporting, compliance, and supporting the senior management team in achieving growth and profitability targets while ensuring strong financial governance.
We are looking for someone to work with us 3 days per week, but will also be open to applicants who are looking for full time work. We have offices in Slough and Corsham, so the ideal candidate will be able to travel to both locations.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Develop and implement financial strategies to support the company's overall business objectives.
* Provide commercial insight to drive profitability, efficiency, and sustainable growth.
* Advise the Board and senior management on financial performance, risk, and opportunities.
Financial Management & Reporting
* Oversee preparation of accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
* Manage cash flow, working capital, and liquidity to ensure operational stability.
* Monitor project performance and margins, ensuring alignment with budget and forecasts.
* Present financial performance to the Board, highlighting risks and mitigation strategies.
Budgeting & Forecasting
* Lead the annual budgeting process and long-term financial planning.
* Prepare and maintain rolling forecasts, incorporating project pipelines and market conditions.
* Analyse variances between actual performance and forecasts, recommending corrective actions.
Risk, Compliance & Controls
* Ensure compliance with statutory, tax, and regulatory requirements.
* Oversee external audits and liaise with auditors, banks, and other financial institutions.
* Maintain robust internal financial controls, policies, and procedures.
* Assess and mitigate financial and operational risks.
Team Leadership
* Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team, ensuring high standards of performance.
* Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Commercial Support
* Support tendering and bid processes by providing financial input and risk analysis.
* Partner with operations and project teams to monitor project profitability and cost control.
* Negotiate and manage relationships with external stakeholders, including lenders, investors, and joint venture partners.
The duties listed are not exhaustive and may be varied from time to time as dictated by the changing needs of the Company. The post holder will be expected to undertake other duties as appropriate and as requested by his/her manager.
The post holder may be required to work at any of the locations at which the business of Sweet Projects is conducted.
Qualifications
* ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified (or equivalent).
Experience required
* Significant experience as a Finance Director / Head of Finance, ideally within construction, civil engineering, or related industries.
* Proven track record in managing multi-million-pound budgets and large project portfolios.
* Knowledge of UK construction accounting standards, CIS (Construction Industry Scheme), VAT, and contract law.
* Experience with ERP/accounting systems relevant to construction (e.g., COINS, Sage, Viewpoint).
Competencies
* Strong leadership and strategic thinking.
* Excellent financial analysis, modelling, and reporting skills.
* Commercially astute, with experience in project-based financial management.
* Deep knowledge of construction sector financial practices, including contract accounting (e.g., JCT/NEC).
* Ability to influence at Board level and build strong stakeholder relationships.
* Strong risk management and governance expertise.