Description
Finance Director
Up to £180,000 + package
Challenger Bank
SMF3 Designation
Fidarsi are delighted to be partnering with a fast-scaling, technology-led Challenger Bank as they continue to expand their UK footprint. Reporting directly to the Group CFO, this is a pivotal SMF3 appointment combining regulatory accountability with strategic financial leadership in a high-growth, digitally driven environment.
This role sits at the heart of the UK entity, balancing prudential oversight, regulatory engagement, and commercial finance leadership within a modern banking framework.
The Opportunity
As Finance Director, you will hold formal SMF3 responsibilities and act as the senior financial leader for the regulated entity. You will operate in a highly visible capacity with the Board, Executive Committee, and Group, ensuring financial resilience, regulatory compliance, and scalable infrastructure to support continued growth.
Key Responsibilities
Regulatory & SMF Accountability
SMF3 – Executive Director
Officer responsible for UK prudential regulatory compliance
Oversight of regulatory reporting and submissions (COREP/FINREP as applicable)
Ownership of safeguarding and client money frameworks (where relevant)
Oversight of external audit and regulatory audit interactions
Primary finance contact for UK regulatory engagement
Financial Control & Reporting
Review and sign-off of UK statutory financial statements
Ensure robust financial control environment aligned to regulatory expectations
Delivery of financial performance, capital, liquidity and regulatory status reporting to:
UK Board
Executive Committee
Strategic & Commercial Leadership
Lead UK strategic planning, budgeting and forecasting processes
Provide data-driven insight to senior stakeholders to support growth initiatives
Support capital planning and balance sheet optimisation
Partner with Risk, Compliance and Treasury functions in a regulated banking framework
Operate effectively within a matrix structure with shared service accounting support
Leadership
Direct management of small team
Elevate finance infrastructure to support scaling and regulatory maturity
As the ideal candidate you will be a fully qualified accountant with a proven track record leading the finance function of an FCA regulated business.