At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial processes and provide insights to support restaurant growth.
- Company: Dynamic restaurant group with a focus on innovation and expansion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working environment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on operational efficiency and financial excellence.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and make a real impact in the hospitality industry.
- Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with experience in multi-unit businesses.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Harper May is working with a founder‑led restaurant group operating across London and the South East. The business has grown organically over the past eight years and now runs twelve established sites with consistent unit economics and a pipeline for further expansion. Recent investment in kitchen systems and point‑of‑sale technology is driving operational efficiency, and the owner is now building out the finance function to support the next phase of growth.
The Role
Reporting to the Finance Director, you will own month‑end and year‑end close, statutory compliance, and financial control across all sites. You will work closely with restaurant managers and operations leadership to translate numbers into actionable insight‑identifying cost drift, margin pressure, and cash flow risk as they emerge. The role sits at the intersection of technical finance and commercial partnership in a hands‑on, owner‑led environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the close process, manage the general ledger, and produce timely management accounts
- Prepare statutory accounts and ensure compliance with accounting standards
- Establish and maintain financial controls, including bank reconciliations, expense coding, and balance sheet review
- Manage the external audit and coordinate tax compliance
- Build and own the annual budget; support quarterly reforecasts and cash flow planning
- Work with site teams on labour scheduling impact, food cost tracking, and local P&L accountability
- Review finance processes and identify opportunities to streamline reporting or tighten control
What we are looking for
- ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified, or equivalent experience and professional standing
- Demonstrated experience in restaurants, hospitality, or consumer‑facing multi‑unit businesses
- Strong technical competency in financial reporting, consolidation, and statutory close
- Comfortable translating financial data into plain language for non‑finance audiences
- Pragmatic problem‑solver who thrives in a growing, informal culture
- Self‑directed and comfortable working with minimal supervision in a tight‑knit team
Financial Controller in London employer: Harper May
Harper May offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for its employees, particularly in the role of Financial Controller. With a focus on growth and operational efficiency, the company fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement. Located in the vibrant restaurant scene of London and the South East, employees benefit from being part of a founder-led business that values financial insight and strategic partnership.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in London
✨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 Harper May. 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 in London
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 Harper May.
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 Harper May'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 Harper May
✨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 Harper May.
✨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 Harper May 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 Harper May 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.
