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- Tasks: Lead the finance function and support strategic growth in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: A rapidly expanding used car supermarket with multiple locations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a dynamic work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy and team development.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in finance, preferably in the motor trade.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and drive efficiencies in finance operations.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We’re a fast-growing used car supermarket with sites in Watford, Barnet, and Enfield, stocking over 1,500 vehicles. As part of our expansion, we’re looking for a commercially astute Financial Controller to lead our finance function and support strategic growth. This is a senior role reporting to the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), with responsibility for financial strategy, controls, reporting, and team leadership. Experience in the motor trade is highly desirable.
- Management Accounts: Prepare and present accurate monthly management accounts with meaningful insights.
- Cash Flow & Working Capital: Oversee cash flow, stock funding, and liquidity management. Maintain strong internal controls and ensure compliance with VAT & HMRC.
- Audit & Tax: Manage year-end accounts, audits, and corporate tax with external advisors.
- Process Improvement: Identify and implement efficiencies across finance operations.
- Leadership & Development: Manage, mentor, and develop the finance team.
- Stakeholder Management: Partner with senior management to provide strategic financial insight.
✔️ Proven experience as a Financial Controller / Finance Manager / Senior Accountant
✔️ Motor trade experience highly preferred
✔️ Strong Xero and Advanced Excel skills
✔️ Experience with Dealer Management Systems (DMS)
✔️ Leadership experience with a hands-on approach
✔️ Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
✔️ High attention to detail and compliance standards
Monday – Friday | 9:00am – 6:00pm
📩 Interested or know someone who’d be a great fit? Send me a message or apply directly — we’d love to hear from you!
Financial Controller in Watford employer: Car Planet
Contact Detail:
Car Planet Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Watford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the motor trade and let them know you're on the hunt for a Financial Controller role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty with research! Dive into the company’s financials, recent news, and their growth strategy. This will not only help you tailor your conversations but also show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Prepare a concise summary of your experience, especially highlighting your skills in Xero, Excel, and team leadership. When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers, you want to make a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fast-growing team!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in finance, especially in the motor trade. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Financial Controller, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our team. Mention specific experiences that relate to financial strategy and team leadership, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: As a Financial Controller, strong analytical skills are a must. In your application, give examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes. We love seeing candidates who can think critically!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Car Planet
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. Prepare examples of how you've improved cash flow or managed working capital effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing and mentoring a finance team, so be prepared to share your leadership experiences. Think of specific instances where you developed team members or implemented process improvements that led to better performance.
✨Understand the Motor Trade
Since experience in the motor trade is highly desirable, do your homework! Familiarise yourself with industry trends, challenges, and financial practices specific to the automotive sector. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the business.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
You'll be partnering with senior management, so think about how you can communicate complex financial insights clearly. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with other departments to drive strategic growth in previous roles.
