Financial Controller

We are seeking a dynamic and hands-on Financial Controller to join our fast-growing, family-owned business. This role requires a blend of strategic vision and operational excellence. The successful candidate will  closely with the Finance Director to support the execution of the business’s long-term strategic plan. This is a unique opportunity for someone who is eager to contribute at both a detailed and high-level and grow with the business as we continue on an exciting growth journey.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Operations & Reporting

• Oversee the day-to-day finance operations including accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and cash flow management.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in reporting to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Manage financial audits and liaise with auditors, ensuring compliance with UK accounting standards and regulations.
• Develop and manage robust financial controls to ensure the integrity of financial data and processes.

2. Financial Planning & Analysis

• Support the FD in the preparation of the company’s budget, forecasts, and financial models.
• Provide insightful analysis of financial performance, identifying key trends, variances, and risks to inform business decisions.
• Monitor KPIs and provide actionable insights to support management in achieving financial targets.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial systems, processes, and reporting frameworks to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.

3. Strategic Partnership

• Work closely with the Finance Director in developing and executing the company’s strategic plan, aligning financial objectives with business goals.
• Collaborate with department heads across the business to provide financial advice and support decision-making on key projects, investments, and growth initiatives.
• Play a pivotal role in supporting the business’s expansion plans.
• (FD, not FC)

4. Hands-On Involvement

• Be comfortable stepping into the details, whether that involves producing financial reports, reconciling accounts, or troubleshooting issues in finance operations.
• Lead by example, ensuring that the finance team remains focused on both the day-to-day transactional aspects of finance and the broader strategic initiatives.
• Take ownership of the finance systems and processes, ensuring they evolve in line with the business’s growth and changing requirements.

5. Leadership & Team Development

• Mentor and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Build strong relationships within the finance team and across departments to promote collaboration and a strong business partner mentality.

Qualifications & Experience

• ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent qualification with extensive post-qualification experience.
• Proven experience in a financial controller or similar role, ideally within a fast-growing SME or family-owned business.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge and familiarity with UK financial regulations.
• Hands-on experience managing financial operations while also contributing to strategic decision-making.
• Demonstrable experience in budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, and reporting.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with a passion for developing talent.

Key Competencies

• Commercial Acumen: Ability to connect financial data with broader business context and drive financial insights into actionable business strategies.
• Hands-On Approach: Willing to engage in detailed financial tasks as needed, demonstrating a strong work ethic and leading by example.
• Strategic Vision: Comfortable working at both operational and strategic levels to help shape and implement the business’s growth strategy.
• Communication & Influence: Excellent communication skills, able to present financial information clearly and persuasively to non-financial stakeholders.
• Adaptability: Flexible and resilient in a dynamic, growing business, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver in a fast-paced environment.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills with a solution-focused mindset, able to identify problems and implement effective solutions.
• Team Player: Able to build strong relationships with peers, subordinates, and senior management, fostering a collaborative working environment.