At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations, reporting, and compliance for a growing insurance firm.
- Company: Join a dynamic insurance brokerage with ambitious growth plans in St. Albans.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced environment where your expertise drives strategic financial decisions.
- Qualifications: Must have ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualification and 5+ years in insurance accounting.
- Other info: Opportunity to scale the finance team as the company grows.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 £ per year.
Hybrid (2 days in Hertfordshire HQ) - c£100K + benefits
UK Insurance Broking experience required. Ambitious growth plans demand our client hires a highly skilled and detail-oriented Financial Controller to oversee the financial operations of this growing insurance firm as they continue to scale. This newly created role is responsible for managing all elements of financial reporting, regulatory compliance, month-end close, and budgeting processes while ensuring accuracy and efficiency in financial controls. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in corporate accounting, specifically within the insurance (broking) sector and comprehensive knowledge of UK financial regulations.
Key Responsibilities:- Oversee the financial reporting process, ensuring compliance with UK/US GAAP and IFRS.
- Manage the month-end and year-end close processes, including reconciliations, accruals, and financial statement preparation.
- Supervise current team of one direct report and scale the organisation over time consistent with the needs of the business.
- Assist corporate team with periodic budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis to support strategic financial planning.
- Supervise accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger activities, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
- Maintain and improve internal financial controls to mitigate risks and enhance operational efficiency.
- Manage bank reconciliations and ensure accurate reporting of cash positions.
- Support audit preparation and liaise with external auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies.
- Implement and improve financial systems and processes to streamline reporting and operational efficiencies.
- Provide financial insights and strategic recommendations to senior leadership.
- ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualification required.
- Minimum 5+ years of experience in corporate accounting within the insurance services sector (broking side).
- Strong knowledge of UK GAAP, IFRS, and FCA financial regulations.
- Experience with insurance brokerage accounting practices, including premium accounting.
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g. Oracle, QuickBooks) and advanced Excel skills.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet strict deadlines.
Financial Controller in St. Albans employer: Asset Resourcing
Contact Detail:
Asset Resourcing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in St. Albans
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the insurance broking sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who can provide insights about the role and potentially refer you.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest UK financial regulations and accounting standards, particularly those related to insurance. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experience that showcase your skills in financial reporting and compliance. Highlight any achievements that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s growth plans and recent developments in the insurance market. Being knowledgeable about their business strategy will allow you to tailor your conversation and show how you can contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in St. Albans
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in corporate accounting, particularly within the insurance broking sector. Emphasise your qualifications (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) and relevant skills such as financial reporting and compliance with UK GAAP and IFRS.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage financial operations and improve internal controls, as well as your analytical and problem-solving skills.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your 5+ years of experience in corporate accounting within the insurance services sector. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed month-end close processes, budgeting, and forecasting.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Mention your proficiency in accounting software like Oracle or QuickBooks, and your advanced Excel skills. This will show that you have the technical expertise needed for the Financial Controller position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Asset Resourcing
✨Showcase Your Insurance Knowledge
Make sure to highlight your experience in the insurance broking sector during the interview. Discuss specific examples of how you've navigated UK financial regulations and any challenges you've overcome in this field.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of financial reporting processes, including UK/US GAAP and IFRS. You might be asked to explain how you manage month-end close processes, so have a clear example ready.
✨Highlight Leadership Skills
Since this role involves supervising a team, share your experiences in managing and developing staff. Talk about how you've scaled teams in the past and your approach to fostering a collaborative work environment.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to accounting software and financial systems. Brush up on your knowledge of tools like Oracle or QuickBooks, and be ready to discuss how you've used advanced Excel skills to improve financial processes.