Financial Controller

Location London
Discipline: Finance
Job type: Permanent
Job ref: K5
Published: about 12 hours ago

We are seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead and manage the company’s financial operations, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and strategic financial planning that aligns with our business objectives. This role is essential to maintaining the company’s financial health by overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, auditing, and the implementation of effective financial processes. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to financial management to support and drive the organization’s financial goals. If you have a track record in financial oversight and strategic planning, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Reporting and Analysis

  • Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in compliance with accounting standards (IFRS, GAAP, etc.).

  • Analyze financial performance against budgets and forecasts, providing detailed variance analyses.

  • Present key financial insights and reports to senior management, offering recommendations for financial strategies and operational improvements.

2. Budgeting and Forecasting

  • Lead the preparation of the annual budget and financial forecasts.

  • Monitor company performance against budgets and forecasts, adjusting projections and providing insights into cash flow management.

  • Work closely with department heads to ensure adherence to the budget and suggest corrective measures where necessary.

3. Cash Flow and Treasury Management

  • Oversee cash flow planning and ensure liquidity to meet operational needs.

  • Manage relationships with financial institutions, including banks, and negotiate loans or financing agreements.

  • Ensure efficient management of working capital, including the management of payables and receivables.

4. Compliance and Internal Controls

  • Ensure compliance with local tax regulations and other statutory requirements, including timely and accurate filing of tax returns (income tax, VAT, etc.).

  • Implement and maintain strong internal financial controls to safeguard company assets.

  • Conduct regular audits of financial procedures and reporting to ensure compliance with policies and regulations.

5. Financial Systems and Process Improvement

  • Evaluate and optimize financial systems, recommending and implementing software or processes that improve financial data accuracy and operational efficiency.

  • Automate and streamline financial reporting, accounting, and auditing processes where possible.

6. Risk Management

  • Identify potential financial risks and develop mitigation strategies.

  • Monitor and manage financial risks related to currency fluctuations, interest rates, and market conditions.

  • Ensure the company has adequate insurance coverage to protect against financial loss.

7. Tax Planning and Compliance

  • Develop and execute effective tax strategies to minimize tax liabilities and ensure compliance with all tax regulations.

  • Oversee the preparation and filing of tax returns and liaise with tax authorities and auditors.

8. Audit and Year-End Process

  • Coordinate and lead the year-end audit process with external auditors, ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete.

  • Address and resolve any audit issues or findings to enhance financial governance.

  • Ensure timely completion and submission of audited financial statements to relevant authorities.

9. Team Leadership and Development

  • Manage and mentor the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

  • Ensure the team is well-equipped with up-to-date knowledge of financial regulations, systems, and tools.

  • Promote professional development and cross-training to build a versatile financial team.

10. Stakeholder Management

  • Collaborate with other departments to support their financial needs and ensure their activities align with company goals.

  • Maintain effective communication with external stakeholders, including banks, auditors, suppliers, and investors.

  • Support the management team by providing financial insights and advice to guide strategic decision-making.

Key Deliverables:

  • Monthly and annual financial statements.

  • Annual budget and quarterly forecasts.

  • Monthly variance reports with actionable insights.

  • Compliance reports and audit documentation.

  • Risk mitigation strategies and internal control audits.

Skills and Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. A Master’s degree or professional certifications (e.g., CPA, ACCA, CMA) is highly desirable.

  • A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in financial management, preferably in a leadership role.

  • In-depth knowledge of financial regulations, accounting principles, and tax laws.

  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

  • Proficiency in financial software (e.g., SAP, QuickBooks, or similar ERP systems).

  • Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.