Head of Finance Change

Trace | Expert Accountancy & Finance RecruitmentLondonreedpublished 10/13/2026
Must-have:AIFinTechLead

& Transformation, City £180,000 - £190,000 + bonus + bens

We are working with an international investment bank who are looking to hire an experienced and forward-thinking finance transformation leader to drive the ongoing evolution of their Finance function. This role will be responsible for shaping and delivering a strategic change agenda that enhances operational effectiveness, supports business growth, and strengthens the Finance operating model. The successful candidate will lead initiatives focused on digital transformation, automation, process optimisation, data excellence, and regulatory robustness. Working across Finance, Technology, Risk, and Operations you will play a pivotal role in modernising finance capabilities and delivering sustainable business value.

Finance Transformation & Strategy

  • Create and execute a long-term roadmap for finance transformation and automation initiatives.
  • Identify opportunities to streamline, simplify, and enhance finance processes across the organisation.
  • Ensure transformation priorities support both business objectives and the future vision for the Finance function.
  • Champion the adoption of emerging technologies, including AI-driven solutions, to improve efficiency and productivity.

Programme & Change Leadership

  • Lead a portfolio of finance change projects from concept and business case development through to implementation and benefits realisation.
  • Establish effective governance, project controls, and performance measures to ensure successful delivery.
  • Manage complex, cross-functional programmes involving multiple stakeholders across Finance, Technology, Risk, and Operations.
  • Ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and achieve targeted business outcomes.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence

  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives across Financial Control, Product Control, Treasury, Regulatory Reporting, Tax, Procurement, and FP&A functions.
  • Promote standardisation of processes, controls, and best practices across teams and jurisdictions.
  • Foster a culture of innovation, efficiency, and continuous improvement within the Finance division.

Technology & Data Management

  • Lead finance systems enhancement, implementation, and replacement programmes.
  • Improve the quality, governance, and accessibility of finance data to support informed decision-making.
  • Partner with technology teams to deliver scalable solutions that enhance reporting, controls, and operational effectiveness.

Value Realisation & Governance

  • Monitor and report on the outcomes and benefits achieved through transformation initiatives.
  • Ensure all change activity is delivered within a robust risk, governance, and regulatory framework
  • Build strong stakeholder relationships and provide clear communication on progress, priorities, and outcomes.

Candidate Profile

  • Fully qualified accountant with 10+ years experience in a similar role
  • Must have extensive experience in the Banking sector
  • Proven experience leading finance transformation, change, or strategic improvement programmes.
  • Strong understanding of finance processes, controls, systems, and regulatory requirements.
  • Demonstrated track record of delivering complex change initiatives in a regulated environment
  • Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
  • Experience working across Finance and Technology functions to deliver business-led solutions.
  • Knowledge of automation, finance technology, and data-driven transformation approaches.

This is an excellent opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the future of the Finance function and delivering meaningful organisational change.