Financial Controller (FTC)

Join Our Team at Smurfit Westrock!

Are you searching for a workplace that values you and your growth? At Smurfit Westrock, we’re committed to sustainability, employee well-being, and personal development.

About Us

We are a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging. Our focus is on the health and safety of our employees, the well-being of our communities, and delivering exceptional service to our customers. We support our team members to reach their full potential in an inclusive environment that values diversity.

The Role

This role leads the site Finance function, providing robust financial control, accurate and timely reporting, and full compliance with statutory, Group and internal audit requirements. You are accountable for the integrity, accuracy and timeliness of all financial data produced by the site—including the complete monthly close, submission and explanation of results.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

Financial Control & Reporting

• Own the full financial close and production of accurate monthly management and statutory reporting for the site; ensure explanations and variance analysis are timely and insightful.
• Maintain strong internal controls and compliance with Group accounting, SOX requirements, reporting and control policies (incl. FMP/Internal Audit standards); uphold data quality, integrity and audit readiness at all times.
• Manage and continuously improve costing systems and methodologies; annually review costing assumptions (e.g., in Navision) against actuals to ensure costs are controlled and profit is maximised.
• Ensure cash and working capital discipline, including effective debt control and cash?flow optimisation.
• Oversee end?to?end payroll collation at site and complete final review prior to submission to UK Payroll; ensure alignment with HMRC requirements.
• Evaluate capital expenditure proposals prior to Board submission; track approved projects through to completion, controlling budgets, recording all costs and issuing clear progress updates.
• Lead the preparation and submission of non?financial/social, sustainability and other regulatory returns required for internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage stock integrity and reconciliations (e.g., Navision ? SAP), ensuring accurate valuation and complete period?end reconciliation.
• Act as lead contact for insurance claims/queries; compile annual data to support premium calculations.
• Process urgent and ad?hoc payments in line with policy and delegated authorities.
• Safeguard legal and regulatory compliance; coordinate effectively with external auditors, internal audit and legal advisers.

Team Leadership & Operations Management

• Lead, mentor and develop the site Finance team; set individual objectives, monitor performance, and address training needs to maintain high capability and cover for all critical processes.
• Shape ways of working that balance compliance and efficiency; standardise processes, documentation and controls across Finance activities.
• Promote and champion cost control and value?for?money across all functions; provide regular cost centre reviews and challenge to drive improvement.
• Serve as the site’s primary contact for IT and IT compliance; triage Helpdesk issues, track resolution and ensure systems operate accurately and efficiently.
• Act as the site GDPR champion with Group guidance—implement, monitor and continuously improve data?privacy processes; organise training and raise awareness.
• Oversee facilities/service contracts entered into at the site, ensuring commercial and compliance standards are met.
• Participate in Health & Safety (H&S) audits, projects and committee meetings; support environmental initiatives and the site’s annual environmental review.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary & benefits, including annual leave, pension, and a Cycle to Work scheme
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• 24/7 confidential support for you and your family
• Flexible working options and family-friendly policies
• Guaranteed interview for candidates meeting essential criteria (Disability Confident Employer)

Ready to make an impact? Apply today and help us build a sustainable future together.

Smurfit Westrock reserve the right to only shortlist candidates who meet both the Essential and Desirable Criteria.

We are an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their sex; religious or similar philosophical belief; political opinion; race; age; sexual orientation; or, whether they are married or are in a civil partnership; or, whether they are disabled; or whether they have undergone, are undergoing or intend to undergo gender reassignment.

We practice equality of opportunity in employment and select the best person for the job.