Finance Analyst in London - Harper May Ltd

Harper May is partnering with a mid-market retail group operating across lifestyle and home categories, with a blend of owned and franchised stores plus a growing direct-to-consumer channel. The business is privately held and has expanded meaningfully over the last three years, driven by new store openings and digital investment. Financial control and commercial insight are now critical as the organisation scales, and the finance function is being strengthened to support faster decision-making across the group.

The Role
Reporting to the Finance Manager, you will own core financial analysis and operational reporting. The role exists to close the gap between transaction data and commercial action-ensuring that variance, profitability, and cash position are understood and communicated weekly across the business. This is ideal for a finance professional who is qualified or working towards qualification and wants real responsibility in a hands-on, fast-cycle environment.

• Prepare weekly and monthly management reporting covering sales, margin, cash flow, and stock position
• Conduct root-cause analysis on forecast variances and trading performance
• Build and maintain financial models for scenario planning and reforecasting
• Support store-level and channel profitability reporting
• Assist with annual budgeting and quarterly planning cycles
• Contribute to month-end close and balance sheet reconciliations

What we are looking for

• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified or part-qualified
• Prior experience in retail, wholesale, or multi-site operations
• Solid Excel and analytical skills; comfort with financial modelling
• Working knowledge of margin mechanics and inventory accounting
• Ability to explain numbers clearly to operational and commercial teams
• Self-directed, methodical, and unfazed by competing priorities