Financial Controller Finance · Leeds HQ ·
Financial Controller Finance · Leeds HQ ·

Financial Controller Finance · Leeds HQ ·

Leeds Full-Time 50000 - 70000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead finance operations and support strategic decisions in a fast-paced environment.
  • Company: Cognisys is a rapidly growing cybersecurity firm with a diverse, remote-first team across 7 nations.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, professional development budget, wellness resources, and generous holiday allowance.
  • Why this job: Join a mission-driven company where your contributions shape the future and innovation is celebrated.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with experience in high-growth businesses and strong financial skills.
  • Other info: Direct access to senior leadership and mentorship opportunities for aspiring Finance Directors.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.

Location: Leeds (Hybrid) – 2/3 days in the office

Salary: £60 – £70K (DOE)

Due to continued growth and expansion, we seek a highly motivated, detail-oriented Financial Controller. Reporting to the CEO and Fractional Finance Director, the successful candidate will assist with day-to-day financial operations and ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.

Cognisys is a fast-scaling, high-performance cybersecurity and GRC (Governance, Risk & Compliance) organisation, serving clients in over 30 countries, with a diverse, remote-first team across 7 nations. With 65 elite professionals, and growing rapidly, we’re building the gold standard in security delivery – and we don’t do average. We’re relentless, smart, and unapologetically ambitious – and we need a Finance Controller who is just as driven.

About the Role

This is not a back-office finance job. It’s a hands-on, sleeves rolled up, business-critical role for someone ready to shape the future of a company in ‘scale-up’ mode. You’ll work closely with the CEO, the Fractional Finance Director, and the senior leadership team to lead Finance operations, inform strategic decisions, and build a future-proof finance function. You’ll bridge strategy with execution – and you’ll do it with pace.

This role is for someone at the top of their game. If you’re looking for a cosy backseat or a slow climb, this isn’t it. But if you thrive in pace, precision, and purpose…we want to meet you!

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in preparing monthly management accounts, including accruals, prepayments, and variance analysis.
  • Perform bank reconciliations and ensure accurate maintenance of financial records.
  • Process invoices, expenses, and payments, ensuring compliance with company policies.
  • Assist with budget preparation and financial forecasting.
  • Support in preparing VAT returns and liaise with tax authorities when necessary.
  • Assist in the completion of balance sheet reconciliations.
  • Provide financial analysis to support decision-making within the business.
  • Work closely with other departments to ensure financial processes are adhered to.
  • Assist in internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and explanations.
  • Contribute to process improvements and efficiency within the finance department.
  • Accurately process supplier invoices and employee expense claims across multiple international locations.
  • Generate, verify, and issue multi-currency client invoices, ensuring accuracy and compliance with contractual agreements.
  • Monitor outstanding invoices, follow up on payments, and effectively manage the debtors’ ledger.
  • Reconcile supplier statements, investigate discrepancies, and ensure prompt resolution.
  • Conduct regular bank reconciliations to maintain accurate financial records.
  • Identify and resolve discrepancies between bank statements and internal records.
  • Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts and financial reports.
  • Support financial reporting processes, ensuring precise record-keeping for audit purposes.
  • Provide payroll data, including absences, bonuses, and tax considerations for employees based internationally.
  • Reconcile monthly credit card statements and expense reports in accordance with company policies.
  • Ensure timely and accurate entry of financial transactions while adhering to international financial regulations and company policies.
  • Maintain well-organised and up-to-date financial records and documentation.
  • Assist with internal and external audits, liaising with auditors as required.
  • Support the finance team with tax compliance across different jurisdictions.
  • Provide administrative support to the finance team and assist with ad-hoc finance tasks as needed.

Requirements

  • You will be a qualified accountant holding ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent.
  • Experienced in high-growth or scaling businesses (ideally services or technology).
  • Highly commercial, with excellent financial modelling and analysis skills.
  • Capable of juggling tactical execution with strategic thinking.
  • Exceptionally organised, resilient, and detail-obsessed.
  • Comfortable working under pressure and driving things forward at speed.
  • A confident communicator who can influence non-finance stakeholders.
  • Familiar with global payroll, intercompany accounting, and multi-currency operations.

If you think you can deliver but don\’t match the criteria above, please don\’t be put off. We are very open-minded and focus on ability and attitude above skills.

What We Offer

  • A front-row seat in a high-growth, mission-driven company.
  • Direct access to senior leadership and decision-making.
  • The opportunity to be mentored by our Chief Financial Officer to develop you as a Finance Director of the future.
  • A chance to help shape the future of a global business.
  • High-trust, high-accountability culture with no room for passengers.
  • A dynamic and supportive work environment where customer care and innovation drive everything we do.
  • A dedicated budget for your professional development
  • EMI Employee Share Schemes provide the opportunity to share in the company\’s success.
  • Access to an Employee Wellness Hub supported by Kara Connect for health and well-being resources.
  • Frequent team social events and celebrations.
  • 22 days holiday rising to 25, plus a birthday holiday.
  • Refer a friend bonus scheme, up to £2,000!

Why Join Us?

At Cognisys, you will be part of a collaborative and innovative team that values your input and shares support. You\’ll have the opportunity to work on challenging projects that make a real impact on our clients. We\’d love to hear from you if you want to challenge, lead and innovate!

We\’re not just about the work; we\’re about the people. Join a team where innovation is celebrated and your contributions are valued. We foster a collaborative environment where fresh ideas thrive and professional growth is encouraged.

Applications

Please feel free to reach out to Dom, our Head of Talent Acquisition, if you would like any further information, to discuss accessibility requirements, or if you require this information provided in an alternative format – hiring@cognisys.co.uk

We welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds and can make various reasonable adjustments to accommodate individual needs.

NO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES, PLEASE

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Financial Controller Finance · Leeds HQ · employer: Cognisys Group

Cognisys is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic and supportive work environment in Leeds, where innovation and collaboration are at the forefront. With direct access to senior leadership and a commitment to professional development, employees are empowered to shape the future of a high-growth cybersecurity company. Enjoy a culture of high trust and accountability, alongside competitive benefits such as EMI Employee Share Schemes and generous holiday allowances, making it an ideal place for ambitious professionals looking to make a meaningful impact.
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Contact Detail:

Cognisys Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Financial Controller Finance · Leeds HQ ·

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific financial operations and compliance standards relevant to a high-growth cybersecurity company. Understanding the unique challenges and regulations in this sector will help you stand out during discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the finance and cybersecurity sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the role and company culture at Cognisys.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience in scaling businesses, particularly in finance roles. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to financial strategy and operational efficiency in previous positions.

✨Tip Number 4

Demonstrate your ability to communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders. Practice explaining financial concepts in simple terms, as this will be crucial in a collaborative environment like Cognisys.

We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller Finance · Leeds HQ ·

Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent)
Financial Modelling
Variance Analysis
Budget Preparation
Financial Forecasting
Bank Reconciliation
Multi-Currency Operations
Tax Compliance
Internal and External Audit Support
Attention to Detail
Strong Communication Skills
Process Improvement
Experience in High-Growth Businesses
Organisational Skills
Ability to Work Under Pressure

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Financial Controller role. Focus on your achievements in financial operations, compliance, and strategic decision-making.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and your understanding of the cybersecurity sector.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, such as ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent, and any experience in high-growth businesses. This will help you stand out as a candidate who meets their requirements.

Showcase Soft Skills: In addition to technical skills, emphasise your soft skills like communication, organisation, and resilience. These are crucial for a role that involves working closely with senior leadership and influencing non-finance stakeholders.

How to prepare for a job interview at Cognisys Group

✨Understand the Company Culture

Before your interview, take some time to research Cognisys and its culture. They value innovation and collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission-driven environment.

✨Showcase Your Financial Expertise

As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial modelling and analysis skills. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed financial operations or improved processes.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your ability to handle high-pressure situations and strategic decision-making. Prepare examples of how you've navigated challenges in previous roles, particularly in high-growth or scaling businesses.

✨Communicate Confidently

Since the role involves influencing non-finance stakeholders, practice articulating complex financial concepts in simple terms. This will showcase your communication skills and ability to bridge the gap between finance and other departments.

Financial Controller Finance · Leeds HQ ·
Cognisys Group
Location: Leeds
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