Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance Recruitment
Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Advertising/Marketing, Central London, C£200,000 + Package
A high-growth, independent advertising agency is hiring its first Chief Financial Officer. With operations across multiple international markets and strong momentum, the business is entering its next phase of scale.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the financial future of a creatively driven organisation while building the infrastructure, discipline, and strategic capability required for long-term value creation and potential external investment.
The Role
As a core member of the executive leadership team, the CFO will partner closely with the CEO and COO to align financial strategy with commercial and operational delivery. You will bring clarity, structure, and insight to a fast-paced, project-based business—balancing creative ambition with financial discipline.
Key Responsibilities
Define and deliver global financial strategy aligned to growth objectives
Drive profitability, margin improvement, and cash performance
Partner with the COO on forecasting, resourcing, and operational efficiency
Lead commercial decision-making across pricing, utilisation, and client profitability
Oversee cash flow, capital allocation, and financial risk
Support and lead M&A activity and future investment readiness
Build and scale a high-performing global finance function
Implement robust reporting, controls, and performance frameworks
Candidate Profile
Experienced finance leader within a multi-region, service-based or project-led business
Strong commercial acumen and track record of driving performance
Experience operating at executive level and influencing senior stakeholders
Exposure to M&A, investor relations, or private equity environments
Ability to thrive in a creative, entrepreneurial culture
Collaborative, hands-on, and execution-focused
Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent
Why This Role?
First CFO hire with genuine strategic influence
High-growth, independent business with global footprint
Opportunity to shape systems, strategy, and team from the ground up
Clear pathway toward investment readiness and value creation