Financial Controller - UK & Ireland

At ALS, we encourage you to dream big. When you join us, you’ll be part of a global team harnessing the power of scientific testing and data-driven insights to build a healthier future.

About The Role

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Financial Controller – UK & Ireland to lead our finance operations across both regions. This key leadership role is responsible for ensuring the integrity of financial reporting, driving operational efficiency, and supporting strategic decision-making for our UK & Ireland businesses. Based in either Coventry or Liverpool, this role will collaborate closely with regional and corporate stakeholders, including the UK & Ireland Executive Team, General Managers, Shared Services (IT, HR, Procurement), and our Corporate Office in Brisbane, Australia.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all financial operations for the UK & Ireland region.
• Lead and manage the month‑end closing process, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Deliver monthly financial reports and analysis to the corporate office in Australia.
• Provide insightful financial analysis to regional leaders, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Manage, mentor, and develop the regional finance team.
• Ensure full compliance with company policies, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee statutory reporting and liaise with external auditors for annual audits (Group and local).
• Drive the financial planning and analysis process, including budgets and forecasts.
• Lead credit and collections management, focusing on improving cash flow and working capital.
• Support M&A activities and post‑merger integration of finance systems and processes.
• Collaborate with Group Treasury on cash forecasting, repatriation, and cash management procedures.
• Partner with local and Group Tax Managers to ensure compliance with all relevant tax legislation.
• Champion continuous improvement, identifying and implementing opportunities for efficiency and process optimisation.
• Promote a strong safety and sustainability culture within the finance function.

Quality, Health, Safety & Environmental Responsibilities

• Ensure all work is conducted in line with the company’s Core Values and financial accounting policies.
• Coordinate and support internal and external audit activities.
• Uphold and promote the company’s Health & Safety and Environmental policies.
• Take a proactive role in developing a strong safety and sustainability culture within the team.

About You

You will be a commercially focused finance leader with the ability to influence and partner effectively across all levels of the business. You thrive in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment and have a passion for driving performance through insightful financial management.

Essential Skills, Experience & Knowledge

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance, and a recognised professional qualification (CA/CPA or equivalent).
• 10+ years’ experience in finance and accounting within a high‑volume industrial or business services environment, including at least 5 years in a management role.
• Proven track record of meeting tight deadlines and managing complex financial operations.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Excellent leadership and people development capabilities.
• Demonstrated experience in change management and financial process improvement projects.
• ERP implementation experience (functional lead or finance manager role) highly advantageous.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and strong working knowledge of MS Office and ERP systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain financial information clearly to non‑financial stakeholders.
• Ability to travel within the region as required.

Our Benefits

• Annual Leave commencing at 25 days (rising to 30) plus 8 public holidays (pro rata for part‑time).
• Ability to Buy annual leave.
• Enhanced Company Sick Pay Scheme.
• Salary Progression Scheme based on technical and behavioural competencies.
• Celebrating Success Recognition Awards.
• Perkbox membership providing access to discount vouchers and wellness hub.
• Learning/study support.
• Group Personal Pension Plan.
• Car Parking on‑site.

Working at ALS

The ALS team is a diverse and dedicated community united by our passion to make a difference in the world. Our values are important to us, and shape how we work, how we treat each other and how we recognise excellence. At ALS, you’ll be supported to develop new skills and reach your full potential. We invest in our people with programmes and opportunities that help you build a diverse career with us. We want everyone to have a safe, flexible and rewarding career that makes a positive impact on our people, the planet and our communities.

Everyone Matters

ALS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where the strengths and perspectives of each employee are both recognised and valued. ALS also welcomes applications from people with all levels of ability. Accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

Eligibility

To be eligible to work at ALS you must be a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the country you are applying for, or hold or be able to obtain a valid working visa.

How To Apply

Please apply online and provide a resume and cover letter that best demonstrate your motivation and ability to meet the requirements of this role. ALS is an Equal Opportunity Employer – all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or any other protected status.