Job Title: Financial ControllerLocation: Soho, LondonReports to: Group Finance Director
Job Purpose:Our Client, a fast-growing London based advertising business, is looking to recruit a high calibre Financial Controller. This Is a new role and you will oversee all aspects of financial management, including accounting, regulatory compliance, financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting. You will play a crucial role in supporting business decisions, ensuring the financial integrity of the company, and driving financial performance in line with business goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Financial Management & Reporting
- Prepare timely and accurate financial statements, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
- Lead the month-end and year-end closing processes.
- Prepare management reports and KPIs for senior leadership, providing insights and analysis on the company's financial performance.
- Coordinate the preparation of budgets and financial forecasts, and report variances.
- Accounting
- Oversee day-to-day accounting functions, including accounts payable, receivable, and general ledger maintenance.
- Ensure compliance with UK accounting standards and regulations (UK GAAP or IFRS).
- Liaise with external auditors and tax advisors to ensure annual audits and tax filings are completed accurately and on time.
- Cash Flow & Cost Control
- Monitor and manage cash flow to ensure the business meets its financial obligations.
- Oversee cash management strategies, including payments, receivables, and credit control.
- Implement cost control measures to improve profitability and identify areas for financial savings.
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Collaborate with department heads to prepare annual budgets and reforecast as needed.
- Monitor actual results against budgets and forecasts, providing detailed analysis and recommendations for corrective action.
- Advise on business decisions by providing financial input and analysis on projects, investments, and new business opportunities.
- Taxation & Compliance
- Ensure the company meets its legal tax obligations, including VAT, corporation tax, and payroll taxes.
- Stay updated on changes in tax legislation and ensure compliance with HMRC requirements.
- Prepare and submit VAT returns, PAYE, and other statutory filings.
- Payroll & Benefits Administration
- Manage payroll processes, ensuring timely and accurate salary payments.
- Administer employee benefits schemes such as pensions, insurance, and other compensations.
- Systems & Process Improvements
- Maintain and improve financial systems and accounting software
- Develop and implement financial controls and procedures to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
- Drive process improvements and automation to streamline operations and reporting.
- Team Leadership
- Supervise and mentor junior finance staff.
- Provide guidance and training on financial best practices to other departments.
Key Skills & Qualifications:
- Essential:
- Proven experience as a Financial Controller, Finance Manager, or similar role.
- Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CPA).
- Strong knowledge of accounting principles and practices (UK GAAP, IFRS).
- Proficiency in accounting software
- Excellent Excel skills and financial modelling experience.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
- Desirable:
- Experience in the advertising, media, or creative industries.
- Knowledge of project-based accounting and revenue recognition in an advertising setting.
- Familiarity with relevant financial regulations and tax laws in the UK.
Personal Attributes:
- Commercially minded with a strategic approach.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to present financial information to non-finance stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Proactive, flexible, and able to adapt to changing business needs