Financial Controller

Connect it Utility Services is a growing multi-utility company committed to delivering exceptional service in the utility sector. We are expanding our team and seeking a Financial Controller to join our Finance team based in Hedge End, Southampton.

Financial Controller is responsible for overseeing the financial health of the organization. The role requires comprehensive financial oversight, strategic input, and proactive management of the finance function to ensure compliance, efficiency, and profitability. The Financial Controller will work closely with commercial, operational project delivery and support services teams to meet business objectives and deliver financial insight.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting and Analysis:

• Preparation of weekly KPI reporting to provide insights into business performance, as well as preparation of monthly management accounts, including variance analysis, to assist in decision-making.
• Monthly balance sheet reconciliations, including stock reconciliations, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Preparation of annual budgets for P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow, including projections for years 2 and 3. Preparation of quarterly reforecasts for the current financial year.

Cash Flow and Financial Planning:

• Preparation of a weekly 6-week cash flow forecast, presented to the board for review and decision-making.
• Supervision and management of supplier payments, ensuring timely and accurate processing.

Team Management and Development:

• Supervision of Accounts Payable (AP) and credit control teams, ensuring timely cash collection and effective supplier management.
• Conduct annual performance development reviews (PDRs) for finance team members, fostering growth and accountability.
• Supervision and sign-off of weekly payroll.

Project Financial Support:

• Attendance at monthly project review meetings to provide financial support and ensure tight cost control and margin recovery.
• Assist commercial and project management teams in maintaining financial discipline on projects.

Audit and Compliance:

• Year-end responsibilities, including statutory accounts preparation and audit management.
• Ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards and regulations.

Process Improvement and Strategic Initiatives:

• Assistance with the recommendation, selection, and implementation of new accounting software in FY26.
• Creation of a comprehensive finance policy and procedure manual.
• Review and enhancement of the accounting department to optimize efficiency and performance.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A recognized accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA).
• Significant experience in financial control and management roles.
• Demonstrated experience in managing audits and preparing statutory accounts.

Technical Expertise:

• Strong financial accounting and reporting skills, Proficient in preparing budgets, forecasts, and management accounts.
• Experience in cash flow forecasting and variance analysis.
• Familiarity with accounting software and ERP systems (QuickBooks experience is advantageous).

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Proven ability to lead and develop finance teams.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build effective relationships across departments.
• Collaborative mindset to work with commercial, project, and operational teams.

Analytical and Strategic Thinking:

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret financial data and provide actionable insights.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to financial management.

Additional Attributes:

• Results-driven with a focus on achieving objectives efficiently.
• Clear and confident communicator, both written and verbal.
• Adaptable to changing priorities and able to manage multiple tasks effectively. Strong organizational skills with a proactive problem-solving attitude.

Connect it is an equal opportunities employer, and we value diversity and promote equality across our business. We welcome applications from all sections of society and are always happy to discuss reasonable adjustments and/or additional arrangements as required to support your application. The terminology used in this advert is not intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010.

By submitting your application for this position, you are authorising for your personal information to be treated in accordance with GDPR. All information submitted to us in relation to your application will be stored confidentially and will only be used in accordance with the Connect it Privacy Policy.