Financial Controller

Role Purpose

Responsible for overseeing financial operations, ensuring accurate reporting, maintaining robust controls, and supporting business performance through insightful analysis and financial planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of monthly management accounts and board reporting.
• Oversee balance sheet reconciliations and ensure accuracy of financial records.
• Prepare statutory accounts in line with UK GAAP/IFRS.
• Maintain and enhance financial controls, policies, and procedures.
• Lead annual budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Deliver variance analysis and commentary on financial performance.
• Manage cashflow forecasting and working capital (debtors, creditors, inventory).
• Support credit control and payment processes.
• Provide financial insight and business partnering to senior stakeholders.
• Support decision-making with financial analysis and modelling.
• Liaise with external auditors and manage audit requirements.
• Ensure compliance with VAT, Corporation Tax, and other regulations.
• Identify and implement process improvements and efficiencies.
• Support financial systems development and automation.
• Supervise and develop members of the finance team.
• Set objectives, conduct appraisals, and support team development.

Person Specification

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Experience in a Financial Controller or similar role within an SME.
• Strong experience in management accounts, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Good understanding of financial controls and reporting standards.
• Advanced Excel and strong financial systems experience.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Desirable

• Experience in multi-entity or group environments.
• Exposure to manufacturing, retail, or service-based SMEs.
• Experience improving financial systems and processes.
• Previous experience managing or supervising a finance team.