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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a finance team, prepare management accounts, and oversee budgeting and forecasting.
- Company: Join a pioneering UK advertising firm known for innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced industry while mentoring a talented team.
- Qualifications: Must be ACA, CIMA, or ACCA qualified with prior experience as a Financial Controller.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive under pressure and seek to drive financial excellence.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Harper May is partnering with a fast-moving advertising business that’s continuing to grow its client portfolio and strengthen the finance function around it. With multiple revenue streams, project-based delivery, and tight production timelines, they’re now looking for a Financial Controller to own day-to-day control, improve reporting, and bring sharper commercial insight to the leadership team.
Role Overview As Financial Controller, you’ll take responsibility for the month-end process, management reporting, and financial controls across the business. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders to track performance by client and campaign, manage cash flow, and ensure the finance function supports confident decision-making as the company scales.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead the month-end close, including journals, accruals, prepayments, and balance sheet reconciliations
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Produce timely management accounts with clear commentary on performance and variances
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Own budgeting and forecasting cycles, supporting department heads with cost control and planning
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Oversee cash flow forecasting, working capital, and invoicing processes to keep cash conversion strong
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Strengthen financial controls and improve finance processes across billings, expenses, and approvals
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Support year-end audit preparation and statutory reporting requirements
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Develop meaningful project and client profitability reporting to improve commercial visibility
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Manage and mentor junior team members and support day-to-day finance operations as needed
Candidate Profile
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ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified (or equivalent)
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Strong Financial Controller experience within a fast-paced, service-led business (agency experience welcome)
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Confident running month-end and producing insightful management information
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Solid understanding of revenue recognition and project-based reporting
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Hands-on, detail-focused, and comfortable improving processes without adding unnecessary complexity
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Strong stakeholder management skills, able to challenge constructively and communicate clearly
Contact Detail:
Harper May Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the finance and advertising sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the role of a Financial Controller.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in financial reporting and compliance, especially within the advertising industry. This knowledge will not only enhance your understanding but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in your field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with forecasting and budgeting in detail during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed these processes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your Excel and financial modelling skills through practical examples. If possible, bring along a portfolio of your work or be prepared to discuss how you've used these skills to drive decision-making in past positions.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a Financial Controller. Emphasise your financial leadership skills, qualifications (ACA, CIMA, or ACCA), and any experience with investor reporting.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention specific achievements in financial management and how they align with the company's goals in the advertising sector.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on key skills mentioned in the job description, such as forecasting, budgeting, and revenue recognition. Use examples to demonstrate your mastery of Excel and financial modelling.
Showcase Leadership Experience: Since the role involves leading a finance team, include examples of your leadership style and how you've mentored team members in previous positions. This will show your ability to foster a culture of excellence.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harper May Ltd
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a Financial Controller, it's crucial to demonstrate your expertise in financial management. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences with management accounts, forecasting, and budgeting. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've driven financial performance in past roles.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a growing finance team, so it's important to convey your leadership style. Share instances where you've mentored team members or led initiatives that improved team performance. Emphasise your ability to foster a culture of excellence within the team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to tax obligations, revenue recognition, and investor reporting. Brush up on relevant regulations and best practices, and be ready to explain how you ensure compliance and accuracy in these areas. This will showcase your technical proficiency and attention to detail.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities are key for this position. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated complex financial information to stakeholders. Consider sharing examples of how you've built trust and transparency with investors or board members.