Hayward Hawk is delighted to be working in partnership with a fast-growing consultancy firm entering an exciting new phase of growth to recruit a Financial Controller. Their services are trusted by a wide range of clients, and they are scaling rapidly across new markets and service lines. As they expand, they are seeking a commercially astute Financial Controller to join the leadership team and play a critical role in shaping the financial direction of the business. This role offers a unique opportunity for an ambitious finance professional to take on a board-level position while maintaining hands-on oversight of day-to-day finance operations. It is ideally suited to someone looking to progress into a Finance Director role as the business continues to grow. The Role This is a strategic and operational role that combines leadership responsibilities with direct ownership of the finance function. You will work closely with the Partner team, board members, and senior leadership team to provide robust financial stewardship and contribute to key business decisions. You will also be responsible for developing and maintaining the financial infrastructure to support scalable, sustainable growth. As a core member of the executive team, the successful candidate will be instrumental in supporting future fundraising activities, expansion strategies, and long-term planningmaking this a highly visible and career-defining role within the organisation. Serve as a key member of the leadership team and contribute to board-level discussions Lead financial planning, forecasting, and analysis in line with strategic business goals Support strategic initiatives including geographic expansion, service line development, and M&A Provide financial insight and challenge to the executive team to support decision-making Lead on funding readiness, investor relations, and capital planning as required Oversee all financial operations including management accounting, reporting, and compliance Lead the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual accounts with full P&L responsibility Maintain and improve financial controls, systems, and processes to support scale Manage cash flow, working capital, and treasury functions Ensure compliance with all regulatory and tax requirements Supervise day-to-day finance activity including AP/AR, payroll, and expense management Manage external relationships including auditors, accountants, and tax advisors The Person Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) Proven experience in a Senior Finance Position ideally within a high-growth or professional services environment Strong commercial acumen with a strategic mindset and attention to detail Demonstrated ability to operate effectively at both board level and operational level Experience implementing and enhancing financial systems, controls, and processes Excellent interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management skills Desirable: Experience within consultancy or professional services sectors Exposure to fundraising, investment processes, or M&A Ambition to progress into a Finance Director role in the medium term What can you expect form this role? A strategic leadership role with direct influence over the future direction of the business Full board participation and visibility across the company Clear pathway to a CFO position as the business grows Competitive remuneration and performance-based incentives A collaborative and entrepreneurial team culture Opportunity to shape and build a best-in-class finance function Get on touch with Gemma Murphy for more information. Skills: Financial Controller finance director CFO