Finance Director – Retail (CFO Pathway)

About the role

The Finance Director will lead financial performance for a leading regional retail and distribution group operating across multiple markets. Reporting to the senior leadership team, this high‑impact role combines strategic oversight with hands‑on execution, offering a clear pathway toward a full CFO mandate.

Key responsibilities

• Drive profitability, cost optimisation and margin improvement across all business units.
• Strengthen working‑capital management, including inventory, payables and cash‑flow discipline.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting and performance tracking for multi‑entity operations.
• Partner with commercial teams to provide data‑driven insights on store performance, category profitability and trading dynamics.
• Support pricing, promotions and supplier negotiations with rigorous financial analysis.
• Lead transformation initiatives to improve financial reporting, planning processes and operational visibility.
• Enhance finance systems, controls and infrastructure, with a preference for ERP exposure.
• Collaborate with leadership on business planning, investment decisions and expansion strategy.
• Develop and mentor a high‑performing finance team across multiple markets, fostering accountability and continuous improvement.
• Travel regularly across the region to engage with business units and align performance reviews.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a Finance Director or Head of Finance in retail, grocery or FMCG environments.
• Strong background in multi‑site or multi‑entity financial management.
• Demonstrated ability to drive financial performance and operational discipline.
• Experience influencing senior leadership and supporting strategic growth initiatives.

Required skills

• ERP systems (implementation or extensive usage).