Financial Controller in Tiptree

We are delighted to be partnering with Perrywood Garden Centres, one of the UK's most respected independent garden centre businesses, to recruit an experienced Financial Controller. With annual turnover of approximately £23 million, Perrywood has built an outstanding reputation for horticultural excellence, customer service and innovation. As the business continues to grow, this is a fantastic opportunity for a commercially minded finance professional to join the senior leadership team and play a key role in shaping its future success.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Financial Controller will lead the finance function, ensuring robust financial management, strong controls and meaningful commercial insight across the business. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines operational finance responsibility with strategic business partnering. You will work closely with department heads and senior stakeholders, supporting decision-making and driving financial performance across a busy retail and horticultural operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Management & Reporting
• Produce monthly management accounts, cash flow forecasts, balance sheets and P&L reports.
• Deliver insightful financial analysis and reporting to the senior leadership team.
• Lead annual budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Support strategic planning and business growth initiatives.
• Banking & Cash Flow
• Manage lender relationships and quarterly bank covenant reporting.
• Maintain short and medium-term cash flow forecasts.
• Monitor liquidity, working capital and financial risks.
• Oversee payment runs, credit control and supplier payment processes.
• Finance Operations & Compliance
• Oversee accounts payable and receivable functions.
• Manage VAT reporting and ensure compliance with HMRC requirements.
• Oversee payroll processes for permanent and seasonal employees.
• Lead year-end audit preparation and liaise with external advisers.
• Ensure strong financial controls and governance across the business.
• Stock & Commercial Support
• Work alongside buying and retail teams to maintain accurate stock valuation and control.
• Oversee stock take processes and investigate variances.
• Provide commercial insight to improve margins and operational performance.
• Support department managers with budgeting and cost control.
• Leadership
• Lead, mentor and develop the finance team.
• Partner with operational leaders across the business.
• Contribute to senior leadership discussions and key business decisions.

About You

We are looking for an experienced finance professional who enjoys operating in a fast-paced, commercially focused environment.

Essential Experience

• ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified, or qualified by experience with a proven track record.
• Previous Financial Controller, Head of Finance or senior finance experience within an SME environment.
• Strong knowledge of management accounting, VAT, payroll and financial controls.
• Experience producing reports for banks, lenders or external stakeholders.
• Excellent systems, Xero and Excel skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Desirable

• Experience within retail, garden centre, leisure, hospitality or other stock-led businesses.
• Familiarity with inventory management and EPOS systems.
• Previous experience managing and developing finance teams.

Why Join Perrywood?

This is an opportunity to join a successful, family-owned business with ambitious growth plans and a reputation for excellence within its sector. You'll become a valued member of the senior leadership team, with genuine influence over business performance and future direction.

In Return

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Senior leadership position with strategic input.
• Supportive and collaborative culture.
• Staff discounts and additional employee benefits.
• Long-term career opportunity within a thriving independent business.

Interested?

If you're an experienced finance leader looking for a role where you can make a real impact, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today for a confidential discussion.