Head of Finance | Engineering

Role Overview

We are partnering with a leading engineering‑led business to identify a Head of Finance to lead the full finance function for its key business units. This is a senior leadership role responsible for end‑to‑end finance management, with a strong focus on project finance, commercial support, and governance.

The successful candidate will act as a strategic partner to business and engineering leaders, ensuring profitable project delivery, disciplined cost control, and strong cash flow management. Candidates with experience in engineering, utilities, infrastructure, or project‑based environments are strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Finance Leadership & Business Partnering

• Lead the full finance function, including financial control, FP&A, project finance, and compliance.
• Partner closely with senior management, engineering, and operations teams to drive business performance and decision‑making.
• Lead annual budgeting, rolling forecasts, and long‑term financial planning for assigned business units.

Project Finance & Commercial Management

• Oversee financial management across the full project lifecycle, from tender/bid stage through execution and close‑out.
• Review and monitor project costing, WIP, cost‑to‑complete, EAC, margin analysis, and revenue recognition.
• Support contract reviews, variation orders, claims, and risk assessments to protect project profitability.
• Chair regular project performance and financial review meetings with project and engineering stakeholders.

Financial Control & Compliance

• Ensure timely and accurate month‑end, quarter‑end, and year‑end closings.
• Oversee management reporting, statutory accounts, and group reporting requirements.
• Maintain strong internal controls and ensure compliance with accounting standards and internal policies.
• Act as key contact for external auditors, tax advisors, and internal stakeholders.

Cash Flow & Working Capital

• Drive cash flow performance and working capital optimisation, including billing milestones, collections, and retention management.
• Monitor credit risk, guarantees, bonds, and related treasury matters.

Systems, Process & Team Leadership

• Strengthen finance processes, systems, and reporting tools (ERP‑based).
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing finance team.
• Promote continuous improvement, automation, and best practices across finance operations.