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- Tasks: Lead the finance team, manage budgets, and prepare financial reports.
- Company: Join a fast-growing retail business in an exciting expansion phase.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that drives business performance and makes a real impact.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with retail experience and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract with potential for future opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Our client is a fast-growing and dynamic retail business experiencing an exciting phase of expansion. Due to an internal promotion, they are seeking an experienced Financial Controller to join the team on a 12-month fixed-term contract. Reporting to the CFO, this key role leads the operational finance function and has responsibility for the efficient and smooth running of all day-to-day activities and the delivery of accurate, timely management information and reporting. In addition to overseeing the operational finance function, the financial control will have responsibility for ensuring budgetary control.
- Financial Reporting & Analysis: Prepare monthly management accounts (P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow statements). Monitor KPIs (e.g. gross margin). Conduct variance analysis to compare actual vs. budgeted performance. Business partner the Executive team to maximise business performance through financial support and challenge.
- Cash Flow Management: Track working capital and optimize cash flow. Manage debtors and creditors, ensuring timely collections and payments.
- Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure financial regulations and tax obligations (VAT, payroll taxes) are met. Prepare for audits and liaise with external auditors. Implement and maintain strong financial controls.
Person specification:
- A qualified accountant with experience of working in the retail / manufacturing environment.
- Strong technical accounting skills.
- Excellent leadership qualities with the ability to motivate, develop and coach team.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Advanced Excel skills.
- Ability to handle high levels of pressure and critical decision making – the ability to prioritise where and how your time is spent.
- Proactive and self-motivated with the ability to take initiative and ownership.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Interim Financial Controller l Retail l employer: Agora Talent
Contact Detail:
Agora Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Financial Controller l Retail l
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the retail sector's financial metrics, such as gross margin and cash flow management. Understanding these key performance indicators will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to the company's financial success during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the retail finance space. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may have insights into the company or role. This can provide you with valuable information and potentially a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with compliance and risk management in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've ensured financial regulations were met in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've motivated and developed teams in the past. The ability to lead effectively is essential for this role, so be sure to highlight your experience in coaching and mentoring others.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Financial Controller l Retail l
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in financial control, particularly within the retail or manufacturing sectors. Emphasise your technical accounting skills and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage budgets and financial reporting.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. Discuss your leadership qualities and provide examples of how you've motivated and developed teams in previous roles. Show your enthusiasm for the position and the company.
Highlight Relevant Skills: When detailing your experience, focus on your advanced Excel skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle pressure. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've successfully managed cash flow, conducted variance analysis, and ensured compliance with financial regulations.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a Financial Controller role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Agora Talent
✨Showcase Your Financial Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your technical accounting skills in detail. Highlight your experience with financial reporting, variance analysis, and cash flow management, especially in a retail or manufacturing context.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
Since this role involves leading the operational finance function, share examples of how you've motivated and developed teams in the past. Discuss your approach to coaching and fostering a collaborative environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle pressure and make critical decisions. Think of specific instances where you successfully prioritised tasks and managed competing deadlines.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating complex financial concepts in a clear and concise manner, as you'll need to partner with the Executive team and present financial information.
