At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance team and drive financial performance in a dynamic, multi-site business.
- Company: Growing company with operations across the UK and Europe, focused on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, clear progression to Finance Director, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a fast-paced environment with international exposure and strong career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy and governance while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with five years' experience in senior finance roles.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 75000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and commercially focused Financial Controller to lead the finance function of a growing, multi-site business operating across the UK and Europe. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, with close collaboration across the wider finance leadership team, this role offers both strategic and operational responsibility within a complex and fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in driving financial performance, strengthening governance, improving reporting and supporting future growth initiatives. This position offers a clear progression pathway for an ambitious finance professional seeking to advance into a Finance Director role within the next 18-24 months.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Control & Governance
- Lead, mentor and develop the finance team.
- Oversee financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting and planning activities.
- Manage month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.
- Monitor cash flow, working capital and overall financial performance.
- Support group reporting, consolidation and audit requirements.
- Ensure robust financial controls, compliance and governance frameworks are maintained.
- Commercial & Strategic Leadership
- Partner with senior leadership to provide financial insight, challenge and support.
- Deliver meaningful management reporting across business units, locations and operational activities.
- Support pricing decisions, profitability analysis and cost improvement initiatives.
- Contribute to strategic planning, business improvement projects and investment decisions.
- Support growth, acquisition and integration activities where required.
- Present financial performance, forecasts and recommendations to senior stakeholders.
- Multi-Site & International Operations
- Provide financial oversight across UK and European operations.
- Drive consistency in reporting processes across multiple legal entities.
- Ensure compliance with statutory and group reporting requirements.
- Strengthen internal controls and financial governance across the business.
- Systems, Processes & Data
- Drive improvements in finance systems, reporting tools and management information.
- Enhance financial visibility and reporting capability.
- Support automation and digital transformation initiatives.
- Improve reporting efficiency, controls and data quality.
- Risk Management & Compliance
- Maintain strong financial control environments.
- Manage credit risk, compliance obligations and contractual exposure.
- Support internal and external audit processes.
- Ensure adherence to governance, compliance and reporting standards.
About You
Essential Requirements
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
- Minimum five years' experience in a senior finance leadership role, such as Financial Controller, Head of Finance or equivalent.
- Experience within a business with revenues exceeding £50 million.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience within logistics, transport, freight, supply chain, manufacturing or other operational sectors.
- Exposure to European accounting environments.
- Experience supporting group consolidation activities.
Finance Controller in Preston employer: ACS Performance
Join a dynamic and forward-thinking company in Preston as a Finance Controller, where you will not only lead a talented finance team but also play a crucial role in shaping the financial future of a multi-site business. With a strong emphasis on employee development, this role offers a clear pathway to advance into a Finance Director position within 18-24 months, alongside a collaborative work culture that values innovation and strategic insight. Enjoy competitive remuneration and the opportunity to make a significant impact across UK and European operations in a fast-paced environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Controller in Preston
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like ACS Performance. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Controller in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to ACS Performance.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on ACS Performance's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ACS Performance
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with ACS Performance.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at ACS Performance will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former ACS Performance employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
