At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance team and oversee financial operations for a luxury estate.
- Company: Join The Newt in Somerset, a stunning luxury country estate.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, wellness perks, and discounts.
- Other info: Up to 30 days annual leave and regular team engagement activities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and proven leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
Up to 12 months maternity cover. £70,000–£80,000 pro rata, depending on experience plus bonus and fantastic benefits. 40 hours per week across 5 days, Monday-Friday. Based onsite - BA7. A driving licence is recommended for this role.
Lead the numbers behind one of the country's most exciting luxury estates. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced finance professional to step into a key leadership role at The Newt in Somerset. Working closely with the CFO and operational leaders across the business, you’ll oversee the day‑to‑day running of the central finance function while ensuring accurate reporting, robust controls, and smooth financial operations across a fast‑paced and diverse business. You’ll lead and develop a talented finance team, support strategic projects and continuous improvement initiatives, and provide commercial insight that helps drive business performance. This role would suit someone who enjoys balancing hands‑on financial leadership with operational collaboration in a dynamic environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, manage, and develop the central finance team
- Oversee month‑end and year‑end close processes and audit activities
- Review monthly management accounts, reconciliations, accruals, and prepayments
- Oversee payroll and payment processes, ensuring compliance and accuracy
- Maintain and improve financial controls, systems, and finance processes
- Support budgeting and forecasting alongside senior finance leadership
- Partner with operational teams to provide commercial insight and financial support
- Support strategic finance projects and continuous improvement initiatives
What we can offer
- A positive workplace environment with opportunities to develop both personally and professionally.
- Peace of mind with Employee Life Cover, providing your nominated loved one with 2x your salary.
- Support from our Employee Assistance Programme, including unlimited 24/7 remote GP appointments for you and your family.
- Look after your wellbeing with complimentary access to our Spa and swimming pools and our exclusive benefit of 50% off Spa Treatments.
- Stay in shape with complimentary use of our gym and wellbeing classes.
- Access to our Cycle to Work scheme, supporting wellbeing and sustainable commuting.
- Complimentary staff meal when onsite – crafted by our dedicated kitchen team, often featuring fresh produce from our estate.
- Enjoy shopping in both our shops on estate and online with 30% discount for all our colleagues and free delivery for any online purchases.
- Complimentary garden membership for The Newt and our partner gardens, including the Eden Project, Kew Gardens and The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
- We value your hard work and recognise your achievements through our colleague recognition programme – Newt Awards, with the opportunity to achieve amazing rewards, including a complimentary Hotel Stay.
- Discover exclusive perks with discounted hotel stays for staff, accompanied by a 30% discount at our restaurants.
- A team that knows how to have fun with regular team engagement activities, including Fun Squad events.
- Up to 30 days annual leave each year for our full‑time team.
What we’re looking for
- ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent professional accountancy qualification
- Proven leadership and people management experience
- Previous experience in a Financial Controller or similar senior finance role
- Strong understanding of financial controls, reporting, and accounting processes
- Experience overseeing payroll, payments, and month‑end procedures
- Excellent analytical and numerical skills
- Strong IT skills including Excel and finance systems
- Commercially minded with the ability to support operational teams and drive performance improvements
Where you’ll be working
The Finance department supports all areas of the business through accurate financial reporting, effective financial controls, budgeting, forecasting, payroll, supplier payments, and commercial analysis. Working closely with operational teams and senior leadership, the department plays a key role in ensuring the smooth financial management of the business across a diverse and fast‑paced operation.
Who are we – The Newt in Somerset
Nestled within an expanse of rolling fields and steeped in ancient history, our luxury country estate stands as a haven of refined elegance, inviting guests to explore acres of captivating gardens, meandering pathways, and enriching exhibitions – accessible 364 days a year for our members. Our hotel extends a warm welcome, offering a home‑away‑from‑home experience where impeccable service flourishes in an ambiance of unassuming sophistication. Beyond the estate, the Newt’s essence remains tangible, with our Ecommerce teams delivering our finest products to homes, while media and membership endeavours keep them informed of our latest developments. Behind the scenes, a tapestry of talented teams – from Housekeeping to HR, Finance to Farming – collaborates harmoniously, crafting an unforgettable journey of growth, development, and innovation, where every contribution creates unparalleled experiences.
Strategic Financial Controller (Maternity Cover) in Castle Cary employer: Finance Team at The Newt in Somerset
The Newt in Somerset is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises personal and professional development. Employees benefit from a range of perks including generous annual leave, wellness initiatives, and exclusive discounts, all within the stunning backdrop of a luxury country estate. Join a dynamic finance team where your contributions are valued, and enjoy a supportive environment that fosters collaboration and innovation.
Contact Details:
Finance Team at The Newt in Somerset Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Financial Controller (Maternity Cover) in Castle Cary
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who might know about opportunities at The Newt. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your financial knowledge and leadership skills. Think of examples from your past roles that showcase your ability to manage teams and improve financial processes.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the role and the company during interviews. Research The Newt and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values and goals. It’s all about making that connection!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Financial Controller (Maternity Cover) in Castle Cary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and financial expertise, as these are key for the Strategic Financial Controller role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of how you've led finance teams and improved financial processes in previous roles.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical abilities, include examples of how you've used data to drive business performance. We want to see your problem-solving skills in action!
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity at The Newt in Somerset.
How to prepare for a job interview at Finance Team at The Newt in Somerset
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Strategic Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial reporting and controls. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed month-end processes and audits in previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership and people management experience. Prepare examples of how you've led finance teams, developed talent, and collaborated with operational leaders to drive performance improvements. Highlight your ability to balance hands-on leadership with strategic oversight.
✨Understand the Business
Familiarise yourself with The Newt's operations and values. Be prepared to discuss how you can provide commercial insight and support strategic projects that align with their goals. Showing that you understand their unique environment will set you apart.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and financial acumen. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles, particularly around payroll, compliance, and financial controls, and how you overcame them. This will showcase your analytical and numerical skills effectively.
