Description
We re looking for a commercially driven Finance Director to partner with the CEO and Partnership, leading financial strategy and transforming how the firm uses data, insight, and performance to drive growth.
This is a high-impact, strategic role, focused on driving commercial performance, enhancing decision-making, and evolving the finance function to support a modern, forward-looking firm.
Please note, this role can be based in Leeds, Halifax or Manchester; however, regular travel between all four office locations, including Cambridge, will be required.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with the CEO & leadership team to shape and deliver firm strategy
- Lead financial planning, forecasting, and performance insight
- Drive commercial decision-making through data-led insight
- Build and develop a high-performing finance team
- Improve systems, processes, and financial controls
- Deliver clear reporting across KPIs, profitability, and cashflow
- Lead external stakeholder relationships (auditors, banks, advisors)
- Oversee budgeting, audit, tax, payroll, and compliance
- Identify opportunities for efficiency, margin growth, and operational improvement
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Established Finance Director or a strong Head of Finance ready to step up
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Experience in professional services (legal/IP highly advantageous)
- Experience transforming finance functions, systems, and processes
- Experience improving finance functions, systems, and reporting
- Confident in influencing senior stakeholders and leadership
Benefits
We pride ourselves on being small and friendly enough for you to get to know everyone but big enough to offer you great career prospects. At Appleyard Lees, you won't feel like a number or just another cog in the wheel. We understand everyone is individual and offer a friendly and supportive place to work and learn.
We also offer:
- 34 hour working week, Monday - Friday
- Agile working
- A supportive and friendly place to work and learn
- Annual salary review
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Salary Exchange
- Life assurance
- Healthcare Cash Plan & Wellbeing App
- Group Income Protection
- Long Service Milestones
- Social outings
- Vouchers on Christmas, Birthdays and Special Occasions
- Charity events