Head of Finance Transformation and Strategic Projects

Role: Interim Head of Finance Transformation and Strategic Projects - Fixed Term Appointment
Location: Leamington Spa, UK - hybrid

Our vision is to create a safe and sustainable world. Ricardo plc is a global strategic, environmental, and engineering consulting company. With over 100 years of engineering excellence and employing close to 3,000 employees in more than 20 countries, we provide exceptional levels of expertise in delivering leading-edge and innovative cross-sector sustainable products and solutions.

The Role
The Head of Finance Transformation & Strategic Projects will lead the modernisation and future development of the finance function, combining strategic vision with hands-on delivery. The role focuses on building a scalable operating model, streamlining systems and processes, and preparing the function for growth and strategic change.

Key Responsibilities

• Finance Strategy and Target Operating Model: Partner with finance leadership to define the long-term vision for the finance function, aligned with business strategy
• Design and implement a scalable Target Operating Model (TOM) covering structure, processes, systems, policies, and controls
• Develop clear roadmaps and business cases for transformation investments

• Finance Transformation Programme Management & Implementation: Lead finance change initiatives spanning ERP optimisation, reporting, data and analytics strategy, process redesign, and organisational development
• Establish robust governance, tracking, and reporting for change programmes to ensure delivery on time and within budget
• Drive adoption of automation, standardisation, and best practices to improve efficiency and control across the finance organisation

• Strategic Projects & Readiness: Ensure the finance function is prepared for major organisational changes such as business growth and investment, integrations and operating model transitions
• Identify and manage critical dependencies between finance and other functions, and develop readiness plans and reporting frameworks to support seamless change execution
• Lead finance readiness initiatives to ensure the organisation can provide timely and accurate information to relevant parties
• Build advanced financial models to support scenario planning, growth strategies, and long-term planning
• Develop financial projections and valuation models to support capital allocation, investment decisions, and external presentations

Key Competencies and Experience

• Professional qualification, ACA or equivalent, with strong post-qualification experience in senior finance leadership roles
• Proven track record in finance transformation, including TOM design, ERP delivery, and cross-functional programme management
• Hands-on experience in leading and supporting large-scale business changes such as integrations, restructuring or operating model transitions
• Strong understanding of finance operating models, controls, reporting, and ERP systems and finance technologies as a driver of transformation

Benefits

We want you to know how much you are valued. Your remuneration and benefits package will reflect that. You will receive a range of benefits which include support for your physical and mental health.

Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in each person's potential, and we'll help you reach yours. We have an ambitious diversity, equality, and inclusion approach.