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Hirexo is partnering with a well-established retail and distribution company that has recently undergone a pre-pack administration and is now backed by new private equity ownership. As the business moves into a phase of financial stabilisation and recovery, we are seeking a highly skilled and detail-focused Head of Finance to take charge of financial operations, reporting, and compliance.
  
About the Company:
  
Our client operates across various retail and concession sites, supported by a head office located in Trafford Park, Manchester. Following a recent restructuring, they require a Head of Finance with expertise in private equity-backed businesses, pre-pack administration, and financial turnarounds. This role will be pivotal in reinforcing financial governance, ensuring stability, and maintaining strong supplier relationships.
  
The Head of Finance Opportunity:
  
This hands-on leadership role reports directly to the Managing Director, with a dotted line to key financial stakeholders. The successful candidate will be responsible for financial accuracy, regulatory compliance, and managing essential financial relationships, particularly with suppliers affected by the administration process.
  
This position is offered as a 6-month fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension or a permanent role for the right candidate. The role requires an office presence of 3-4 days per week, in line with the leadership team’s schedule.
  
Key Responsibilities of the Head of Finance:

Ensure financial controls are effectively managed, maintaining compliance and accuracy in reporting.
Take the lead in supplier negotiations, managing key financial relationships and maintaining business continuity despite past financial difficulties.
Provide hands-on financial oversight, including cash flow management, forecasting, and month-end reporting.
Work closely with the Managing Director and financial stakeholders to support the business’s financial recovery.
Ensure adherence to statutory and regulatory financial obligations.
Oversee a small finance team, including a Junior Management Accountant, Accounts Payable Clerk, and Accounts Receivable Clerk.
Supervise outsourced payroll operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Assist with ad-hoc financial projects as required to ensure a seamless transition under the new ownership.   
What You’ll Need to Succeed as the Head of Finance:

Fully qualified accountant (ACCA / CIMA / ACA) with significant post-qualification experience.
Demonstrated expertise in private equity-backed businesses, pre-pack administration, acquisitions, exits, and financial turnarounds.
Strong experience in financial governance and reporting, ideally in a retail, wholesale, or multi-site environment.
Confident and resilient approach to supplier negotiations, with the ability to manage complex financial discussions.
A hands-on financial management style, with excellent attention to detail and an ability to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Experience leading finance teams and providing guidance in high-pressure situations.
In-depth knowledge of cash flow management, budgeting, and forecasting.
Strong stakeholder management skills, capable of building solid relationships with leadership teams and external partners.   
The Package for the Head of Finance:

Salary: £55,000 to £75,000 pro-rata
6-month fixed-term contract, with the potential to extend or transition into a permanent position
Hybrid working (3-4 days in the office, aligned with leadership team presence)
Opportunity to play a key role in business recovery and financial restructuring
Based in Manchester, Trafford Park   
About Hirexo Talent Partners:
  
Hirexo Talent Partners are a specialist finance recruitment consultancy, partnering with businesses across the UK to strengthen their financial teams. From finance assistants to CFOs, we help companies secure the best talent to drive success. If you're an experienced Head of Finance looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you