Job Description

SmartSearch's distinctive Anti-Money Laundering verification software protects our clients by offering the most advanced and comprehensive features available from an AML provider.

SmartSearch has grown rapidly by fostering an incredibly collaborative and supportive culture. As we continue our ambitious growth plans, we will strive to remain a truly exciting, rewarding, and unique place to work.

HOW WILL YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

We're seeking a strategic and analytical finance leader to join our senior team as Head of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). This individual will lead all aspects of budgeting, forecasting, long-term planning, and financial analysis. They will serve as a key partner to executive leadership, enabling informed, data-driven decision-making across SmartSearch.

This is a high-impact role that requires both strategic thinking and strong execution. The ideal candidate will also be a proven people manager, capable of developing a high-performing team and building trusted relationships throughout the business.

VARIED DAY TO DAY RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead the FP&A function, including financial modelling, budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning. Partner with senior leadership across departments to deliver strategic financial support and business insights. Provide hands-on support for pricing strategy, customer proposals, and go-to-market decision-making, ensuring financial alignment with company goals. Deliver monthly and quarterly financial reporting packages, including KPI tracking, variance analysis, and commentary. Lead the annual budgeting and reforecasting cycles in collaboration with department heads. Support investment cases, board presentations, and strategic planning activities. Drive continuous improvement in forecasting accuracy, reporting automation, and analytical capabilities. Manage, mentor, and grow a high-performing FP&A team, fostering a culture of collaboration, development, and accountability. Implement and improve tools and processes that scale with company growth.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN A CANDIDATE?

Qualified Accountant (CIMA or ACA) 8+ years of progressive experience in FP&A, corporate finance, or strategic finance roles, with at circa 3 years in a leadership capacity. Demonstrated success in partnering with senior executives to support strategic initiatives, particularly in pricing and commercial strategy. Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams; a strong, empathetic, and effective people manager. Experience in high-growth, tech-driven, or SaaS environments is preferred. Experience in an acquisitive PE environment is preferred and advantageous. Advanced Excel and financial modelling skills; proficiency with ERP (e.g., NetSuite), BI tools (e.g., PowerBI, Tableau), and planning platforms (e.g., Adaptive Insights, Anaplan). Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to translate complex financial data into clear insights and recommendations. High degree of initiative, adaptability, and ownership.

WHAT IS LIFE LIKE AT SMARTSEARCH?

We are a multi-award winning Tech company with an aspirational mentality Some of our most recent recognitions include: named in the renowned

RegTech100 list for 2024

, listed in the

Top 100 Fasted Growing Tech Companies

by

Northern Tech Awards

2024

as well as being named

Technology Provider of the Year

by

Corporate Finance Awards 2024

We have been

Great Place To Work Certified since 2022

There are excellent progression opportunities due to our growth and you will have personal development goals, regular feedback and support We are a diverse and inclusive team committed to promoting Diversity & Inclusion and Social Responsibility. Through our DE&I group, charitable initiatives and support for local schools, we actively foster a positive Impact on our community

COMPANY BENEFITS

Our comprehensive benefit package includes:

25 days holiday rising to 30 with each year of service Private Medical Insurance covering dental and optical Company pension scheme Life Assurance - 4x your annual salary 1 day paid volunteering per year Enhanced maternity / paternity offerings Employee Assistance Programme Cycle to work scheme On site gym
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 90,000.00-100,000.00 per year

Additional pay:

Performance bonus Yearly bonus
Benefits:

Additional leave Casual dress Company events Company pension Cycle to work scheme Employee mentoring programme Enhanced maternity leave Enhanced paternity leave Financial planning services Free parking Health & wellbeing programme Life insurance On-site gym On-site parking Paid volunteer time Private dental insurance Private medical insurance Referral programme Sick pay Transport links Work from home
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship to work in the UK? Are you able to reliably commute to the Ilkley office?
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Ilkley LS29 8FL