Rutherford Cross has been retained by a highly respected independent company, which operates in the research sector and supports one of Scotland’s most high profile global industries.

Due to retirement, our client is now looking to recruit a new Finance Director, in a part time capacity, to take on a pivotal role in the Senior Management Team. The post will be for 25 hours per week with full flexibility offered with regard to how those hours are worked, notwithstanding Board and Management level commitments.

This is a key position with full responsibility for the financial stewardship of the organisation. It is a broad and highly visible role both within the business and externally with affiliate organisations, and therefore requires an individual of high calibre and experience with the capacity to build strong working relationships.

The Finance Director position incorporates a blend of accounting, stakeholder engagement, and operational management requiring an experienced individual with strong technical and interpersonal ability. Previous experience of working for a research led organisation would be helpful but is not essential. In addition, it is preferred the individuals will come from an SME background and therefore be experienced in the day-to-day operational management of a small business.

Successful candidates must be able to multi-task and work autonomously, possessing the ability to form and develop longstanding relationships with senior stakeholders both internally and externally. It is essential that candidates display all the required personal characteristics, especially in demonstrating strong organisational skills, attention to detail and an ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, other research groups, and affiliate organisations.

A summary of the key candidate requirements are as follows:

• Degree educated with a track record of high academic achievement
• CA/ACA qualified with a minimum of 5 years’ PQE
• Confident and strong interpersonal skills, especially when interfacing with senior management, internal/external stakeholders or staff
• Ability to work to strict deadlines and motivate staff to do likewise
• Self-motivated and capable of developing the current role over time
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Accountable for own decisions and actions whilst respectful of the professional responsibilities of others
• Able to effectively communicate to non-financial colleagues and stakeholders 

The main duties and responsibilities are as follows:

• Financial stewardship and corporate governance of the company
• Part of the Senior Management team reporting directly to the Board
• Regular liaison with the Board including writing papers for Board meetings
• Legal compliance including contract and employment law
• Working closely with project managers with regard to budget setting and monitoring
• Project costing and monitoring, including resource budgets, in conjunction with project managers
• Budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management, and quarterly management accounts
• Statutory accounts preparation
• Liaison with external advisors and regulators
• Quarterly VAT returns
• Controlling costs including staffing, building and assets
• Overseeing outsourced payroll
• Pensions management including attendance at Trustee Meetings
• Office and facilities management
• Management of one Administrative Assistant

It is likely that candidates will be CA/ACA qualified with minimum 5-year’s post-qualification experience and, ideally will have trained with an accountancy practice. In addition, it is important that candidates are happy to work as part of a small finance department and excel on tasks at both basic and complex levels.

To apply, please contact our retained advisor Billy McCarthy at Rutherford Cross.