At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial control and governance while driving continuous improvement across a multi-site business.
- Company: Join Dick Lovett, a top automotive retailer in the South West.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days holiday, private medical insurance, and a car ownership scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to excellence and personal growth.
- Why this job: Step into a high-profile role with potential for future Finance Director opportunities.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in large, complex organisations.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking an exceptional, commercially minded Financial Controller to join a leading automotive retail group with annual revenues exceeding £800 million. Reporting directly to the Finance Director, this is a high-profile leadership role that will play a critical part in strengthening financial control, enhancing reporting quality, supporting strategic decision-making and driving continuous improvement across a complex multi-site business. This position offers a unique development opportunity.
During the initial 6 to 9 months, the successful candidate will focus on gaining a deep understanding of the business, its operations, systems and financial processes, with specific focus on group consolidation and tax. During this period, there will be no direct reports, allowing full immersion into the organisation. Following this onboarding phase, the role will evolve into a broader leadership position with responsibility for the three key finance teams:
- Management Accounts
- Financial Accounts
- Head office / Central Costs Accounts
The Financial Controller will be a key member of the senior finance leadership team and a trusted deputy to the Finance Director.
Job Opportunity
- Financial Leadership & Control: Own financial control, governance and compliance across the Group, ensuring accurate reporting, consistent accounting practices and effective support for statutory accounts, audit and Board-level decision-making.
- Reporting & Performance Management: Strengthen reporting and insight by reviewing performance, highlighting risks and opportunities, supporting budgeting and forecasting, maintaining balance sheet discipline and delivering meaningful KPI reporting across the business.
- Business Improvement: Drive continuous improvement across finance processes, systems and controls, championing best practice and working with operational leaders to improve financial performance and accountability.
- Stakeholder Management: Build strong relationships with dealership and senior leadership teams, supporting strategic projects, acquisitions, integrations and business change, while deputising for the Finance Director when required.
- Team Leadership: Lead the Management Accounts, Financial Accounts and Head Office Accounts teams, building a high-performing finance function through coaching, development, accountability and continuous improvement.
Essential Skills
Essential Requirements
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
- Significant post-qualification experience within a large, complex, multi-site organisation.
- Strong technical accounting background combined with commercial acumen.
- Proven experience of leading high-performing finance teams.
- Excellent knowledge of financial controls, reporting and governance.
- Experience managing external audit relationships and statutory reporting requirements.
- Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence senior leaders.
- Advanced analytical, problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
Highly Desirable
- Experience within automotive retail, retail, distribution or other high-volume multi-site environments.
- Experience supporting organisational growth, acquisitions or finance transformation programmes.
- Strong understanding of ERP and financial reporting systems.
- Previous experience in a Financial Controller, Group Financial Controller or Finance Director direct report role.
This position is designed as a successor role to the Finance Director, suited to a high-calibre qualified accountant seeking their final step before progressing into a Finance Director position in the future.
About Company
Accelerate your career with Dick Lovett. Dick Lovett has grown to become one of the South West's leading automotive retailers, representing a number of the motoring industry's biggest and most prestigious manufacturers. Come and grow with us.
DE&I
We all have a ‘Personal Role in Delivering Excellence’ at Dick Lovett. This doesn’t just refer to our customers, this phrase is pivotal to our hiring process, onboarding, and how we look after our staff and treat each other at Dick Lovett. We are committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all. The company appreciates the advantages of being an equal opportunities employer and recognise the importance of having a diverse and inclusive team. When everyone feels that they are included and are appreciated for their performance, we will be able to deliver on our promise of customer satisfaction.
Benefits
- 27 Days Holiday (plus Bank Holidays)
- Employee Car Ownership Scheme
- Bonus scheme
- Private Medical Insurance
- Health cash plan – Claim back medical costs
- Rewards platform – Gym & high street discounts
- Contributory Pension Scheme
- Regular Pay Reviews
- Life Assurance
- Servicing, Parts and Accessories Discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Staff Referral Scheme
- Learning and Development
- Enhanced Family Leave
- Volunteering Opportunities
- Onsite Parking
Financial Controller employer: Dick Lovett
At our Ferrari dealership in Swindon, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values a premium customer experience and employee satisfaction. Our work culture fosters collaboration and excellence, offering extensive learning and development opportunities alongside competitive benefits such as private medical insurance, a contributory pension scheme, and regular pay reviews. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your contributions are recognised and rewarded, all while working in a luxurious environment that embodies the spirit of Ferrari.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 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.
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Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Dick Lovett. 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 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 Dick Lovett.
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Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Dick Lovett'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 Dick Lovett
✨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 Dick Lovett.
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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 Dick Lovett 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 Dick Lovett 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.
