Financial Controller

Our client is looking for an experienced Financial Controller to oversee and manage the financial operations of the company, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic decision-making. The Financial Controller will supervise the finance team in both the UK and one site overseas (EU) and work closely with the Directors and external auditors.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Accounting & Reporting:

• Develop and supervise the implementation of internal financial accounting, monitoring, and reporting systems.
• Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial reports for management
• Analyse, prepare, and present quarterly management accounts to the board.
• Prepare budgeting and forecasting reports, providing detailed insights and recommendations to the board.

1. Cashflow & Accounts Management:

• Oversee the management of accounts receivable and accounts payable ledgers, ensuring smooth and accurate transactions.
• Maintain healthy cashflow, ensuring timely payments and collections.
• Review and optimise financial processes to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

1. Strategic Financial Contribution:

• Provide key contributions to the company’s financial strategy and decision-making processes.
• Collaborate with senior management to evaluate the financial impact of business decisions and make recommendations.
• Research and report on factors influencing business performance, such as currency fluctuations, market trends, and economic conditions.

1. VAT & Tax Compliance:

• Prepare, manage, and submit VAT returns and handle HMRC processes for the UK company.
• Ensure that all documents related to imports and exports comply with UK and EU rules.
• Liaise with overseas (EU) accountants to ensure accurate production of monthly reports, VAT returns, and other submissions in accordance with local regulations.

1. Stock & Inventory Management:

• Oversee and organise stock counts and valuations, ensuring margins are protected when price lists are produced in other currencies.
• Monitor inventory systems to ensure accurate recording and valuation of stock.

1. Audit & Compliance:

• Lead the end-to-end audit process of current systems, acting as a point of contact for external auditors.
• Ensure that all financial records and practices comply with legal, regulatory, and company standards.
• Take overall responsibility for the management of financial details to ensure legal requirements are met.

1. Team Leadership & Development:

• Manage, motivate, and develop the finance team based in the UK and EU
• Provide guidance, training, and support to ensure high standards of financial operations and reporting.
• Foster a collaborative, efficient, and results-driven finance team environment.

1. Cost Management & Efficiency:

• Review financial reports and identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency across the company.
• Proactively propose and implement cost-saving measures without compromising operational performance.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A professional qualification in accounting (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) is essential.
• Significant experience (5+ years) in financial management or a similar role, preferably within an international company.
• Proven experience managing accounts receivable, accounts payable, and cashflow management.
• Solid understanding of UK and EU VAT regulations, tax compliance, and financial reporting standards.
• Experience in managing audits, preparing management accounts, and working with external auditors.

Skills Required:

• Strong financial analysis and reporting skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with experience overseeing teams in multiple locations.
• Strong knowledge of accounting software and ERP systems.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with senior management, external auditors, and other stakeholders.
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and organisational skills.