Finance Manager, Financial Accounting (part time)

A biotechnology business in Oxfordshire seeks a qualified accountant to join them as Head of Finance. Our client is a pre-revenue biotech who has just secured a successful series A raise. They are seeking an ambitious and technically excellent Head of Finance to serve as the CFO's operational "co-pilot" during a transformative period for the business. This is a rare opportunity to join at an inflection point where you'll have genuine ownership over building, professionalising, and scaling the finance function, while working in a fast-paced, science-driven environment that values pragmatism and growth alongside financial rigour. As Head of Finance, you will directly manage and develop a Management Accountant, mentoring a high-performing, efficient finance team in line with the company’s growth. All financial operations and controls will come under your responsibility, assuming day-to-day ownership of core financial reporting, management accounts, and statutory obligations. You will review, redesign, and implement robust financial processes appropriate for scale and growth and build and maintain strong financial controls that support that growth. Leading month-end and year-end close processes with accuracy and efficiency and ensuring compliance with UK FRS9, tax regulations, and statutory requirements, and annual audit processes are part of your role along with systems and infrastructure, including working with the CFO to lead or support ERP evaluation and implementation beyond current systems. You will design and deliver clear, insightful reporting for functional leadership teams, partner with scientists and operational leaders to build financial literacy and embed good financial discipline across the organisation and build trust and credibility as a responsive business partner. You will support corporate strategy by building and owning group consolidation processes and work with external accountants and advisors on group accounting, structuring, and technical matters. Supporting the CFO in corporate transactions from a due diligence, financial operations and integration perspective will also form part of your role. Strong technical accounting knowledge with the ability to navigate complex technical matters confidently is required, along with experience implementing or improving financial systems, processes, and controls in a scale-up / growth environment. You will have demonstrable experience managing and developing junior team members, and reporting out to non-finance stakeholders across the business and UK tax knowledge and experience working with tax advisors ideally within life sciences, biotech, or R&D-intensive businesses. As an effective collaborator in a multidisciplinary environment, building relationships, and gaining trust through honesty, compassion, and authenticity, you will also have a curious and courageous mindset - someone who enjoys trying new things and taking initiative in a fast-paced environment. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-funded, Oxford University spin out with a comprehensive benefits package as it embarks on its growth journey.