Part-time Financial Director (Defence Sector)

About Flare Bright

Flare Bright is a fast-growing software company specialising in Flight Safety and GPS-free Navigation Systems for the Aerospace, Defence, and Urban Air Mobility sectors. With a team of around 35 professionals, we operate from Oxford/Bicester and White City, London. Our culture is professional, flexible, and inclusive, offering excellent benefits and a proven track record of success. This is a rare opportunity to join an expanding, cutting-edge team.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Financial Director to provide strategic financial leadership and guidance as we continue to grow. Reporting to the CEO, you will work closely with our executive and management team to drive financial strategy, optimise resources, and prepare the company for future investment or acquisition.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the annual budget, forecast financial performance, and provide insightful analysis to support strategic decision-making.

• Optimise cash flow management, working capital, and funding strategies as needed.

• Identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring strong internal controls and long-term financial stability.

• Provide financial input on commercial proposals, contract negotiations, and business development activities.

• Supervise finance assistants and oversee day-to-day financial operations, including invoicing, payroll, and financial tracking.

• Build and maintain relationships with investors, service providers, and contractors, including banks and accountants.

• Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to ensure best practices.

• Ensure the accurate and timely preparation of monthly financial reports, ensuring compliance with regulations and accounting standards.

• Prepare monthly financial reports for the Board.

• Implement and oversee project profitability reporting, ensuring financial transparency and performance tracking across key initiatives.

• Lead and mentor a small finance team, implementing a training program for new finance employees.

Skills and Experience

• Must have experience of exiting a business, whether through sale, acquisition, merger, or IPO.

• Experience within the defence sector or willingness to work in this industry.

• Strong background in financial leadership, forecasting, and resource planning.

• Experience in securing funding, managing working capital, and risk mitigation.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Requirements:

• You must be comfortable working within the defence industry. A Baseline Personnel Security Standard check will be undertaken before an offer is made, and you must be willing and eligible for (or already have) at least UK SC clearance. References will be checked.

Location:

• Hybrid working could be considered, but you will generally work in White City, London or our Head Office in Westcott Venture Park (15 minutes’ drive from Bicester or Aylesbury, 30 minute drive NE of Oxford).

• This is not a purely remote position.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a rapidly growing company at the forefront of cutting-edge technology in the defence sector.

• Enjoy a flexible, professional, and inclusive work culture.

• Work with a talented team shaping the future of Machine Learning & Digital Twin technology.

• Competitive pro rata salary and benefits.

• 33 days annual holiday (pro rata), Employee Assistance Programme, cycle to work scheme and support for Continuous Professional Development

If you are a strategic financial leader looking for a part-time opportunity with impact, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today to join Flare Bright’s exciting journey.