Head of Finance & Operations

Do you have a strategic finance background and a passion for scaling innovative, science-led businesses?

Are you excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of a fast-growing startup combining cutting-edge chemistry with sustainable consumer products?

Do you thrive in a dynamic environment where you can make an immediate impact, lead operations, and build out a business for global growth?

MacGregor Black are partnered with a pioneering personal care business seeking a Head of Finance & Operations to join their team based in Leeds.

This is a rare opportunity to join an early-stage, science-driven company that’s redefining natural personal care. Backed by years of academic research and commercialised through their own consumer brand, the business is already gaining traction across international markets. As Head of Finance & Operations, you’ll play a central role in scaling the company’s operations and financial strategy while partnering closely with the CEO to drive long-term value creation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead all aspects of financial strategy, including planning, budgeting, reporting, and compliance.
• Oversee financial operations including accounting, tax, treasury, and audit functions.
• Translate high-level strategy into robust operational plans, implementing KPIs and performance metrics to drive execution.
• Support fundraising activity through investor relations, due diligence, and the preparation of financial models and materials.
• Manage and develop internal processes to ensure operational efficiency and scalable growth.
• Drive strategic IP portfolio management, exploring models for commercialisation including licensing and co-development.
• Act as a key strategic partner to the CEO and board, providing financial insight and commercial leadership.

What are we looking for?

• Proven experience in a senior finance and/or operations leadership role, ideally within a startup or scale-up environment.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and deliver results.
• A track record of building and improving systems, processes, and performance across both finance and operations.
• Experience with IP-based businesses, consumer goods, or scientific/technical product companies is highly desirable.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a hands-on approach and a passion for innovation and sustainability.

This is a unique chance to be part of something purpose-driven from the ground up – where your leadership will directly influence the trajectory of the business and the industry it’s looking to transform.

Salary circa £80-100k

For more information, please contact Fraser Graham.