Interim Finance Director [6 months]

About IDEO

IDEO is a global design consultancy where curiosity, empathy, and innovation drive everything we do. For over 40 years, we’ve partnered with clients across healthcare, mobility, education, retail, and beyond to tackle complex challenges. Our goal is to create meaningful, human-centred impact through design.

The Role

We are looking for an experienced and hands-on Finance Director to lead our Finance Function in the London HUB for a 6-month sabbatical cover starting in December 2024. This pivotal role is responsible for cultivating, developing, and supporting our talented teams through efficient and effective financial processes, helping IDEO achieve its business objectives and growth.

Key Responsibilities

As Finance Director, you will:

• Lead and develop the London Finance Team, consisting of one Sr Finance Specialist to align with IDEO’s financial objectives
• Responsible for all accounting functions in London including accounts payable, accounts receivable, GL, month close
• Responsible for financial planning and quarterly financial forecasting
• Support audit, and tax filing requirements
• Provide the leadership (local & global) teams with up-to-date financial reporting to make informed decisions about the operations and strategic direction for the organisation
• Provide necessary corporate and financial information for client vendor set up and procurement processes
• Lead financial and international tax compliance enquiries with relevant third party tax advisors for consulting contracts
• In partnership with consulting project leads, ensure effective tracking and management of consulting project finances and budgets
• In partnership with the global finance team, develop, implement, and maintain GAAP & internal controls
• Ensure compliance with all local rules and regulations by enlisting help from outside advisory firms on an as needed basis
• Reconcile, prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns. Assist in corporate tax filings requirements.
• In consultation with the leadership team, analyse organisational revenues, expenses and suggest improvements as needed

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking someone with:

• 8+ years of relevant experience in accounting or finance. MBA or ACCA/CPA is preferred
• Experience with GL accounts entry and reconciliation
• Experience with supplier and client management
• Budgeting/Forecasting experience
• Strong leadership, management, technology, analytical & strategic planning skills
• Excellent Analytical skills & ability to interpret complex financial information
• Excellent communication skills
• Knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
• Fluent in using Slack, Google Suite, Zoom, or similar communication and collaboration tools
• Proficiency in MS Office and competency in ERP software (e.g. Workday).
• Experience collaborating effectively across distributed teams and time zones
• Adept at meeting tight deadlines amidst competing priorities

Bonus Points

Experience in global creative, design, or consulting organisations is a plus.

What IDEO Offers

• Growth and Learning: Whether it’s developing leadership skills, honing design expertise, or exploring new technologies, we support your growth journey.
• Community: We thrive on collaboration and foster moments of creativity, connection, and reflection—valuing a balanced work-life approach.
• Purposeful Projects: We partner with clients to use design as a force for good, solving meaningful problems from inception through to implementation.

Location:

This role is based in our London studio, with the flexibility of a hybrid working model. You must be based in the UK and have the unrestricted right to work here, as we are unable to offer sponsorship. Applicants with long notice periods need not apply, as we are seeking a candidate who is available immediately.

The Job Posting will be removed on 12/2/2024 - please apply before the deadline