Blair West are supporting Ward Group Investments with the appointment of a Head of Finance.
Ward Group Investments is a privately owned, fast-growing property investment and development business with a diverse portfolio spanning student residential, industrial, office, retail, and leisure sectors. Established in the early 2000s, the company continues to expand rapidly through an agile, hands-on approach and a focus on high-quality, value-add projects. Current developments include major student accommodation and mixed-use schemes in the North East & beyond, alongside an active pipeline of retail, leisure, and industrial assets.
This opportunity will suit a commercially focussed Accountant who will play a key role in a highly ambitious, entrepreneurial organisation.
The opportunity:
- Lead the day-to-day finance function, managing and developing a small team.
- Enhance management information and deliver timely, accurate financial reporting.
- Take ownership of budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and OPEX reporting.
- Partner with the Founder and senior team to provide clear financial insight and strategic support.
- Act as the main point of contact for external advisors, ensuring statutory compliance and high-quality reporting for lenders and stakeholders.
- Develop systems and processes as the complexity of the portfolio grows.
You’ll be the ideal candidate for this position if you have:
Essential
- Accountancy qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) with experience from a mid/senior finance leadership role
- Strong management accounting and reporting experience with proven ability to improve financial processes, MI, and controls.
- Hands-on approach, comfortable in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills — able to work closely with Founder and leadership team
Desirable
- Background in property investment, asset management, or development.
- Experience working in SME or family office settings.
- Exposure to group structures and consolidation.
The benefits included with this opportunity:
- Competitive base salary and bonus potential
- 25 days annual leave
- Flexible, hybrid working
Our commitment
Blair West is an equal-opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and inclusion at every stage of the recruitment process. We are committed to fairness, equality, and ongoing diversity training for our team to give our candidates and clients a feeling of belonging during their experience with us. If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during their experience with us, please speak to their consultant.
