Head of Finance/ Finance Director

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Finance/Finance Director to lead our financial operations at Zest Leisure Group, an established and successful business in the leisure and hospitality space (Trading as Anytime Fitness.). This pivotal role involves overseeing financial management, planning, and reporting to support the company's growth.

About the Role

This is not your everyday BAU finance job! As the No.1 in Finance for Zest, you’ll sit at the heart of strategy, partnering directly with the MD and shaping what the next 3–5 years look like.

You’ll play a pivotal role in financial decision-making, driving performance through insight and strong operational control.

This role is primarily site based (4 days per week in the office and 1 day WFH) with a sensible approach to flexibility.

Job Responsibilities

• Play a significant role in the strategic direction of the company, business partnering with the MD.

• Oversee financial operations for multiple portfolio companies in the leisure and hospitality industries.

• Own the end-to-end management accounts process for the business (in Xero) including timely P&L, balance sheet and cashflow reporting, robust balance sheet reconciliations, and a well-controlled month-end close aligned with Group deadlines.

• Manage day-to-day cashflow and working capital, flagging risks and supporting spend decisions.

• Act as the lead finance business partner to the SLT.

• Provide weekly and monthly performance insights, surfacing risks and opportunities across trading, margins and cost control.

• Own labour cost forecasting, rota modelling and related analysis - ensuring fairness, clarity and operational alignment.

• Liaise with external accountants, auditors and banks.

• Oversee payroll, invoicing, VAT, and tax matters.

• Support business development with financial modelling and scenario planning.

• Manage, mentor and develop a small finance & admin team.

About the Successful Applicant

• A degree and full accounting qualification, with ACA / ACCA / CIMA first-time passes.

• Minimum of 7 years of post-qualified experience in senior, commercially focused finance roles.

• A skilled and experienced leader and manager of people.

• Experience working in an SME or growing business environment essential with exposure to multi trade or multi-site businesses preferable.

• Proven financial leadership experience in a senior finance role in an SME environment (50+ staff).

• Must have a commercially minded approach with strong analytical and modelling skills.

• Advanced Excel and IT proficiency, including experience with financial systems (Xero) and a practical interest in artificial intelligence.

• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders.

What You Will Receive in Return

• A competitive salary (range of £85,000-£92,000 per annum) plus 10-20% annual bonus

• 33 days holiday per year plus annual loyalty bonus day

• Free gym memberships for you plus one

• Company pension

• Substantial investment in your L&D journey and CPD

• Loyalty holiday bonus each year & birthday off

• And much, much more!