Chalk Hill Group are delighted to have been retained to appoint a Financial Controller for an established, international products business, entering an exciting new chapter, based in Crawley, West Sussex.
This is a pivotal appointment for a commercially minded finance professional who wants to take ownership of the finance function, influence business performance and play a key role in shaping the next phase of growth.
Operating in a high-volume trading environment, the business needs a Financial Controller who understands the commercial drivers behind the numbers - from stock movements and cost of sales through to pricing, gross margin and working capital.
The Opportunity:
Reporting directly to the General Manager/Managing Director, you'll take responsibility for the finance function, combining strong technical accounting with a hands-on, commercially focused approach. You'll work closely with the senior leadership team, providing meaningful financial insight, strengthening controls and helping drive better business decisions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the production of accurate monthly management accounts, delivering clear insight into financial performance, profitability and key business drivers.
- Take ownership of financial control, statutory reporting, year-end accounts, audit and compliance.
- Analyse sales, product and customer profitability, challenging performance and identifying opportunities to protect and improve gross margins.
- Strengthen reporting and controls around inventory, goods in/goods out, cost of sales and working capital.
- Lead budgeting, forecasting and cash-flow planning, providing the GM and senior leadership team with meaningful commercial insight.
- Develop the finance function, improving systems, reporting and processes while building effective relationships across finance, sales, purchasing and operations.
About You:
The essential requirements are a recognised accountancy qualification and relevant experience within retail, trade, wholesale, distribution or another product-led business. Experience in these environments is essential due to the volume of transactions, movement of goods and nature of the operation.
You'll also bring:
- ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification.
- Previous experience as a Financial Controller, Head of Finance or in a comparable senior finance position.
- A strong understanding of stock, cost of sales, gross margin and working-capital management.
- The ability to balance technical accounting, robust financial control and commercial decision-making.
- Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders, challenging constructively and translating financial data into actionable insight.
- A hands-on approach, with the leadership skills to develop people, improve processes and drive continuous improvement.
- Experience supporting a business through a transformation or period of significant change would be advantageous.
Why consider this role?
This is an opportunity to step into a high-impact position within an established business undergoing an important period of transition. You'll have direct access to senior leadership, genuine scope to influence commercial decisions and the opportunity to shape how finance operates as the business moves forward. For an ambitious Financial Controller, there is also a clear opportunity to progress towards Finance Director.
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Financial Controller in Crawley employer: Chalk Hill Group
Chalk Hill Group is an excellent employer that values hands-on leadership and offers a dynamic work environment near Gatwick. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to mentor junior staff while making a significant impact on finance processes within the company. The supportive culture encourages innovation and collaboration, making it a rewarding place for professionals looking to advance their careers in finance.
