Head of Data and System strategy

Job Profile: Head of Finance Systems & Data Management Role Overview We are seeking an experienced, visionary and pragmatic Head of Finance Systems & Data Management to lead the design and delivery of our Finance systems and data strategy. This is a senior leadership role that combines strategic vision with hands-on execution, ensuring Finance has the right platforms, governance, and insights to operate effectively in a regulated technology environment. The successful candidate will be accountable for Finance’s systems and data landscape, driving improvements in efficiency, compliance, and insight generation. They will deliver both immediate, tangible benefits and a longer-term roadmap to modernise Finance’s systems and data capabilities, ensuring they are scalable, audit-ready, and aligned to the needs of a fast-evolving business. Key Responsibilities Finance Systems & Data Strategy Define and own the Finance systems and data strategy agenda, ensuring alignment with CFO priorities and business strategy. Deliver a pragmatic roadmap that balances short-term improvements with longer-term transformation. Ensure Finance systems and processes are designed to meet regulatory, statutory, and management reporting requirements. Systems & Data Ownership Act as Finance’s owner of ERP, EPM, consolidation, and reporting tools, partnering with IT and external vendors on design, implementation, and support. Implement a fit-for-purpose Finance data lake (unified integrated data platform) & governance framework to ensure accuracy, integrity, and control of financial data. Establish Finance’s “single source of truth” for reporting and analysis, embedding robust integration and controls. Drive adoption of advanced analytics, self-service reporting, and AI/automation capabilities. Establish and own the finance data governance framework and act the Finance chief data officer (CDO) Process & Control Improvement Redesign and simplify core Finance processes (e.g., fast close, reporting, planning, revenue recognition, reconciliations) to drive efficiency, accuracy, and compliance. Embed controls within systems and workflows to ensure audit readiness and regulatory compliance (e.g., SOX, IFRS 15, GDPR, FCA/PRA obligations). Leverage automation and self-service tools to improve reporting efficiency and reduce manual effort. Regulatory & Risk Management Ensure all Finance systems and data practices comply with regulatory and audit standards. Anticipate regulatory changes and ensure Finance systems and processes remain compliant. Oversee remediation and assurance activities where system or data issues impact compliance. Stakeholder Leadership Act as a trusted advisor to the CFO and Finance leadership team on data, systems, and technology matters. Partner with business, technology, and external vendors to deliver sustainable solutions. Lead cultural change by building Finance’s data literacy and embedding new ways of working. Skills & Experience Proven track record of leading Finance systems and data transformation, ideally in a regulated technology or financial services environment. Hands-on experience implementing ERP/EPM systems (Microsoft D365, Workday, SAP, Oracle, Anaplan, etc.) and modern data/reporting platforms. Deep understanding of Finance operating models and processes (reporting, planning, tax, treasury, controls, revenue recognition). Strong knowledge of Finance data governance, master data management, and reporting frameworks. Experience embedding regulatory compliance into Finance systems and processes (e.g., SOX, IFRS 15, GDPR, FCA/PRA requirements). Strong leadership skills, with the ability to influence across CFO, IT, and business stakeholders. Experience balancing “best in class” ambitions with pragmatic execution in a resource-constrained environment. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Technology, or related field. Professional accounting qualification (ACCA, CIMA, CPA) or MBA is desirable but not essential. 12-15+ years of progressive experience across Finance, systems, or transformation roles, with demonstrable leadership at scale. Personal Attributes Strategic thinker with a strong delivery mindset. Strong effective communicator at executive and working levels Able to lead with gravitas and having the ability to influence a variety of stakeholders Able to simplify complexity and translate systems/data concepts into business impact. Pragmatic, prioritising quick wins without losing sight of long-term goals. Collaborative leader who builds trust across Finance, IT, and the wider business. Resilient and adaptable, able to operate effectively in a regulated, fast-changing environment.