At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function for a rapidly growing grocery brand and shape its future.
- Company: Join a premium consumer brand on an exciting growth journey in the UK market.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £90,000 plus a 10% bonus and hybrid working.
- Other info: Opportunity to build and own the finance function from the ground up.
- Why this job: Be the first finance hire and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in fast-growing consumer goods or grocery sectors.
The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.
We are partnering with a premium consumer brand on a hypergrowth trajectory in the UK grocery market, with annual revenues of circa £40m and strong listings across all major retailers. It is a small, high‑performing team with real ambition, and a genuine opportunity to establish and own the in‑house finance function inside one of the most exciting growth stories in UK grocery right now.
The first dedicated finance hire for the UK entity. The Financial Controller will report directly into the CEO, with a dotted line to the Group CFO. You will own the full UK finance function: statutory reporting, tax, compliance, treasury, and commercial partnering with Sales and Marketing. It is a genuinely hands‑on role with significant scope; the business is growing fast and there is a clear opportunity to shape the finance function as it matures toward full subsidiary status. There is no existing team to inherit, making ownership mentality and the ability to operate independently essential from day one.
Key Responsibilities
- Own end‑to‑end monthly and annual close, coordinating with an external accounting services provider
- Prepare statutory financial statements under UK GAAP and oversee all balance sheet reconciliations
- Ensure compliance with UK tax regulations including VAT and Corporation Tax; manage external tax advisors and auditors
- Lead statutory audits and serve as the primary point of contact for all external advisors
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis in collaboration with the UK MD and group headquarters
- Partner with Sales and Supply Chain to ensure accurate accounting of trade spend, rebates, and commercial agreements
- Oversee treasury, cash flow, banking relationships, and payment and collections processes
- Drive process improvements and build a robust internal control framework as the entity scales
Qualifications
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Experience with ERP systems, ideally SAP
- Experience in a fast‑growing branded consumer goods or grocery business
- Exposure to a business in the process of building or formalising its finance function
Salary: Up to £90,000 + 10% bonus | Location: Central London, Hybrid
We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and assure you that every candidate will be thoughtfully considered for the roles we represent, without regard to race, religion, gender expression, disability, or sexual orientation.
Financial Controller | Rapidly Scaling Grocery & FMCG Brand | Central London /Hybrid employer: Harmonic, Inc.
Harmonic, Inc. is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture in the heart of London. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, team members are empowered to take ownership of their projects while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements. Joining our team means being part of a fast-scaling premium brand where your contributions directly impact our success and you can thrive in a supportive environment that values creativity and data-driven decision-making.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller | Rapidly Scaling Grocery & FMCG Brand | Central London /Hybrid
✨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.
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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 Harmonic, Inc.. 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 | Rapidly Scaling Grocery & FMCG Brand | Central London /Hybrid
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 Harmonic, Inc..
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 Harmonic, Inc.'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 Harmonic, Inc.
✨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 Harmonic, Inc..
✨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 Harmonic, Inc. 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 Harmonic, Inc. 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.
