Finance Director (f/m/d)

An industry-leading automotive group is seeking a Finance Director to lead financial strategy and execution across its growing Digital Wholesale Marketplace and Physical Auction operations across Europe. This is a highly commercial, multi-country leadership role based in Cologne, Germany.

My client operates at the forefront of automotive transformation, combining digital and physical platforms to reinvent how vehicles are bought, sold, and managed. Backed by a multibillion-dollar enterprise, the group is scaling its operations across Europe and is now looking for a commercially minded finance leader to support that journey.

Tasks

• Define and deliver commercial finance strategy across core European markets (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and others)
• Lead and develop a high-performing pan-European finance team
• Partner with senior leadership to influence key decisions and growth initiatives
• Own financial control, reporting, forecasting, and long‑term planning
• Drive performance insights, risk management, and strategic investment planning
• Provide financial leadership for a major digital proposition scaling across multiple markets
• Report into the Group Finance Director and operate within a collaborative, matrix structure

Requirements

The successful candidate will bring:

• A fully qualified accounting background
• Fluency in both English and German, other European languages are a plus
• Experience in multi‑country finance leadership, ideally in automotive, digital platforms, or technology
• Proven ability to lead and develop cross‑border teams
• Strong commercial acumen, analytical thinking, and the confidence to challenge and influence at senior level

Benefits

Strategic impact: Shape the financial future of a major European automotive business

Leadership at scale: Work within a global organisation operating in 200+ locations

High‑growth focus: Contribute to a transformative digital initiative with strong market momentum

Attractive executive package including a performance bonus: 20% on‑target, with strong history of overachievement (the pas years and including 2025 already!)

Values‑driven culture: Join a purpose‑led, people‑first business backed by long‑term investment

Career development: Benefit from structured progression and continuous leadership development

This is a rare opportunity to join a dynamic and future‑focused leadership team at the forefront of mobility innovation.

Applications are welcome from candidates based in Germany or willing to relocate.

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