At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and provide strategic insights to drive business growth.
- Company: Join Garden Trends, a fast-growing retailer in the garden and leisure sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Flexible working options and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on business performance in a dynamic SME setting.
- Qualifications: ACCA, CIMA or ACA qualified with strong finance experience.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Watlington, Oxfordshire
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: c. £55,000 - £65,000 depending on experience
About Us
Garden Trends is a fast-growing, multi-channel retailer specialising in garden furniture, barbecues, leisure products, Christmas and seasonal ranges. Established in 2014, the business has experienced significant growth and continues to expand across both online and retail channels. We are an ambitious, entrepreneurial business that values accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
The Role
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Finance Controller will take ownership of the finance function and provide accurate, timely and insightful financial information to support strategic decision-making. This is a hands-on leadership role combining operational finance management with commercial business partnering. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, compliance and financial controls while supporting wider business functions where required.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Management & Reporting
- Lead and manage all day-to-day financial operations.
- Prepare accurate and timely monthly management accounts.
- Produce monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports.
- Ensure integrity of financial records and accounting processes.
- Maintain and reconcile all balance sheet accounts.
- Oversee sales ledger, purchase ledger and bank reconciliations.
- Deliver meaningful management information and financial analysis to support decision-making.
- Budgeting, Forecasting & Commercial Analysis
- Lead the annual budgeting process across the business.
- Prepare rolling cash flow forecasts and financial projections.
- Monitor business performance against budgets and forecasts.
- Analyse profitability, margins and operational performance.
- Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Provide commercial insight and recommendations to improve business performance.
- Support strategic planning and growth initiatives.
- Cash Flow & Working Capital Management
- Manage company cash flow and liquidity requirements.
- Monitor and optimise working capital performance.
- Oversee debtor and creditor management processes.
- Support stock valuation and inventory reporting.
- Identify opportunities to improve cash generation and operational efficiency.
- Compliance, Audit & Financial Controls
- Ensure compliance with all statutory, regulatory and financial reporting requirements.
- Prepare and submit VAT, PAYE and other HMRC returns.
- Manage year-end audit processes and statutory reporting requirements.
- Liaise with external accountants, auditors and professional advisers.
- Develop and maintain robust financial controls, policies and procedures.
- Monitor financial risk and recommend appropriate mitigation measures.
- Systems & Process Improvement
- Drive continuous improvement across finance and administration processes.
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through automation and systems development.
- Maintain and develop management reporting tools and financial systems.
- Support wider business projects involving finance, IT and operational improvements.
- Leadership & Business Support
- Lead, mentor and develop members of the finance team.
- Establish a culture of accountability, accuracy and continuous improvement.
- Provide financial support and guidance to department managers.
- Work closely with the Managing Director on strategic projects and business planning.
- Support wider business functions including HR, IT and office administration where required.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- ACCA, CIMA or ACA qualified, or Qualified by Experience (QBE) with significant relevant senior finance experience.
- Previous experience in a Financial Controller, Finance Manager, Senior Management Accountant or similar leadership role.
- Strong management accounting and financial reporting experience.
- Proven experience preparing budgets, forecasts and cash flow projections.
- Experience managing financial controls and compliance processes.
- Advanced Excel skills and strong financial systems knowledge.
- Experience using Sage Accounts or equivalent accounting software.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Ability to work independently and take ownership of the finance function.
- Experience working within a growing SME environment.
Desirable
- Experience within retail, e-commerce, home, garden or consumer products sectors.
- Knowledge of inventory, stock and margin reporting.
- Payroll management experience.
- Experience implementing finance systems or process improvement projects.
- Understanding of HR and operational business processes.
- Experience supporting business growth, acquisitions or organisational change.
Personal Attributes
- Commercially minded with strong business acumen.
- Hands-on and willing to work at both strategic and operational levels.
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
- Proactive and solutions-focused.
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Able to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Confident communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Positive, adaptable and committed to continuous improvement.
Working Pattern
- Full-time permanent role.
- Based primarily at our Head Office in Watlington, Oxfordshire.
- Flexibility may be considered for the right candidate.
- Occasional additional hours may be required during month-end, year-end and budget preparation periods.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary dependent on experience.
- Opportunity to play a key leadership role within a growing business.
- Significant influence on business strategy and decision-making.
- Supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
- Long-term career development potential.
Benefits
- Rural office location with free on-site parking.
- Rest area with complimentary tea and coffee.
- On-site independent café.
- Company pension scheme.
- Friendly, close-knit team environment.
Financial Controller employer: Garden Trends Ltd
Garden Trends is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment in the picturesque setting of Watlington, Oxfordshire. As a fast-growing retailer, we provide our employees with significant opportunities for professional development and career progression, while fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. With competitive salaries, a close-knit team atmosphere, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on business performance, we are committed to nurturing talent and driving success together.
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.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Garden Trends Ltd. 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 Garden Trends Ltd.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Garden Trends Ltd'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 Garden Trends Ltd
✨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 Garden Trends Ltd.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
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 Garden Trends Ltd 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 Garden Trends Ltd 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.
