At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and provide strategic insights to enhance business performance.
- Company: Dynamic engineering and manufacturing organisation with growth opportunities.
- Benefits: Gain exposure to financial strategy and develop leadership skills.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with mentorship from an experienced Finance Director.
- Why this job: Shape financial performance and make a real impact in a growing company.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in financial reporting and compliance.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ per year.
An organisation within the engineering and manufacturing sector is exploring the potential appointment of a Finance Controller to strengthen its UK finance function. This role is expected to play a key part in shaping financial performance, enhancing controls, and supporting strategic decision-making as the business continues to develop. Working closely with the Finance Director, this position would suit either an established Finance Controller seeking a broader and more impactful remit, or a high-performing Finance Manager ready to step into a more comprehensive, career-enhancing role. The successful individual would likely take ownership of core financial operations while contributing insight, challenge, and commercial perspective across the wider business.
ANTICIPATED RESPONSIBILITIES
- Financial Leadership & Commercial Insight
- Provide ongoing financial insight and guidance to senior leadership and departmental heads
- Support decision-making through analysis of financial performance, trends, and variances
- Challenge and influence budget holders on performance and cost control
- Identify opportunities for efficiency, margin improvement, and cost optimisation
- Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting
- Contribute to the preparation of annual budgets and longer-term financial planning
- Support the development of rolling forecasts and scenario planning
- Assist with financial evaluation of contracts, tenders, and commercial initiatives
- Help shape mid-term financial strategy
- Financial Reporting & Operations
- Oversee production of monthly management accounts and KPI reporting
- Review and support preparation of statutory financial statements
- Maintain ownership of month-end and year-end processes
- Ensure timely and accurate reporting to internal and external stakeholders
- Develop and enhance reporting dashboards
- Governance, Controls & Compliance
- Strengthen and maintain financial controls, policies, and procedures
- Oversee balance sheet integrity, reconciliations, and fixed asset accounting
- Provide oversight of CAPEX processes and approvals
- Ensure compliance with financial regulations and internal standards
- Monitor areas such as stock, provisions, and expenses
- Audit & External Reporting
- Support and potentially lead the annual audit process
- Liaise with auditors, tax advisers, and external stakeholders
- Assist in preparation of tax packs, statutory accounts, and R&D submissions
- Ensure audit readiness and robust supporting documentation
- Working Capital & Cash Management
- Help manage cash flow, including rolling forecasts
- Oversee debtor and creditor processes and relationships
- Support supplier payment cycles and customer invoicing
- Contribute to VAT return preparation and submission
- Participate in payment authorisation processes
- Team & Business Support
- Work collaboratively across departments to support operational goals
- Contribute to development of finance processes and systems
- Support, mentor, or help develop junior team members where required
- Participate in continuous improvement and systems enhancement projects
PROFILE - WHAT MAY BE REQUIRED
- Professionally qualified accountant (ACA or equivalent)
- Demonstrable experience within a Financial Controller or senior finance role
- Strong grounding in financial reporting, controls, and compliance
- Experience working within dynamic, operational environments
- Commercially aware with the ability to influence non-finance stakeholders
- Strong systems capability (ERP experience advantageous)
- Analytical, proactive, and solution-oriented approach
- Effective communication and leadership capability
OPPORTUNITY
This role presents a potential opportunity to gain broad exposure across financial operations in a growing and evolving organisation, with direct support from an experienced Finance Director. It is expected to offer the successful candidate the chance to influence financial strategy, develop leadership capability, and build a well-rounded platform for future progression.
Financial Controller in Edinburgh employer: Hays Accounts and Finance
As a leading organisation in the engineering and manufacturing sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to professional development ensures that you will have ample opportunities for growth and advancement, supported by a dynamic Finance Director who values your insights and contributions. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team where your expertise will directly influence financial strategy and operational success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector and let them know you're on the lookout for a Finance Controller role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity that’s not even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial insights and commercial awareness. Be ready to discuss how you can influence budget holders and improve financial performance. Show them you’re not just about numbers, but also about strategic decision-making!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job openings! We often post roles that might not be listed elsewhere, so make sure you’re applying through us to maximise your chances of landing that Finance Controller position.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Finance Controller role. Highlight your experience in financial reporting, controls, and compliance, and don’t forget to showcase any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that align with the responsibilities listed in the job description, and show us your passion for finance and strategic decision-making.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:As a Finance Controller, you'll need to provide insights and challenge budget holders. In your application, include examples of how you've used your analytical skills to influence decisions or improve financial performance. We love seeing proactive problem solvers!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you get all the updates. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Accounts and Finance
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to influence decision-making in previous roles. This shows you can provide the ongoing financial insight they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves working closely with senior leadership, so be prepared to share examples of how you've led teams or influenced stakeholders in the past. Highlight your ability to mentor junior team members and contribute to a collaborative environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially around budgeting and forecasting. Think of specific scenarios where you identified opportunities for efficiency or cost optimisation, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Understand Their Business
Research the organisation's position within the engineering and manufacturing sector. Familiarise yourself with their financial challenges and opportunities. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their financial strategy.
