At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead group financial reporting and improve controls in a fast-growing business.
- Company: Dynamic, PE-backed company with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Salary up to £75,000, hybrid working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with genuine scope to shape your role.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a newly created role during an exciting growth phase.
- Qualifications: ACA qualified with 2-3 years' post-qualification experience in a fast-growth environment.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
AtkinsClarke are delighted to be supporting the appointment of a Group Financial Controller for a fast-growing, PE-backed business based in the East Midlands, with a footprint around Nottingham or the Birmingham outskirts. This is a newly created role, identified through the recent audit process, and offers an excellent opportunity for an ambitious, technically strong finance professional to join a business with genuine scale-up ambitions and take real ownership of group reporting, controls and statutory compliance.
Our client is a high-growth, private equity-backed business with an increasingly complex group structure, built through a combination of organic growth and acquisition. Backed by an ambitious investment thesis targeting c.2x growth over the next 3-4 years, the business is investing in strengthening its finance function to support that next phase of expansion. With a recent audit process having highlighted a number of areas for improvement, the organisation is now looking to bring in additional technical capability at Group level to drive consistency, control and best practice across the wider finance team.
Reporting into the Group Financial Controller, this is a standalone role at this stage, created to provide additional depth and a sounding-board layer within the Group finance function as the business continues to scale. You will play a central role in the year-end audit process, group financial statements and the rollout of improved controls, while building strong working relationships with Divisional Finance Controllers across the group.
- Supporting the preparation of group financial statements and the annual audit process
- Leading on lease accounting and revenue recognition transitions under UK GAAP
- Working closely with divisional FCs to embed consistent group accounting standards
- Designing and implementing improved financial controls identified through the audit
- Acting as a technical point of contact for accounting standards and treatment queries
- Supporting group reporting timetables and improving quality and consistency of output
- Building strong relationships across a complex, multi-entity group structure
- Helping to shape the future scope of the role as the group continues to scale
This is a fantastic opportunity to make a genuine, visible impact within a business at an exciting stage of its growth journey.
We are looking for a technically strong, personable and direct finance professional who is comfortable working collaboratively and asking the right questions.
- ACA qualified, with a Big 4 or top 10 mid-tier practice background
- 2-3 years' post-qualification experience in industry
- Experience within a fast-growth or high-growth environment would be highly advantageous
- Strong UK GAAP knowledge; IFRS experience is not essential
- Confidence working across group financial statements and the annual audit process
- A proactive approach to controls implementation and process improvement
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across divisional teams
- A personable, direct character who is comfortable challenging and asking questions rather than working passively under direction
Salary up to £75,000. Hybrid working, with 3 days per week in the office. Broad exposure to a PE-backed environment. Genuine scope to shape and grow the role over time. Career development opportunities, including potential paths into a Divisional FC role or more commercial finance routes.
At AtkinsClarke, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities.
Group Financial Controller employer: Atkins Clarke
Atkins Clarke is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values collaboration and innovation within the education sector. Employees benefit from flexible hybrid working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to fostering leadership skills, making it an ideal environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in financial governance. Located in the West Midlands, the company provides a supportive atmosphere where strategic thinkers can thrive and contribute to the success of the Multi-Academy Trust.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Financial Controller
✨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 Atkins Clarke. 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 Group Financial Controller
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 Atkins Clarke.
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 Atkins Clarke'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 Atkins Clarke
✨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 Atkins Clarke.
✨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 Atkins Clarke 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 Atkins Clarke 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.
