At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop finance operations, ensuring robust financial controls and insightful analysis.
- Company: PE-backed manufacturing services group in Newbury, poised for rapid expansion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape a growing finance team.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career advancement and impactful contributions.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming finance operations and driving business growth.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong financial control and team management experience.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Head4Talent are currently working for a PE backed manufacturing services group based in Newbury that are about to embark on rapid expansion. As part of this growth, they are seeking to hire a Financial Controller to help create stronger financial controls, deeper analytical insight and a finance organization capable of supporting future growth. The Financial Controller will lead, develop and professionalize the finance function, establishing robust financial control, working capital discipline and data-driven insight. This is a pivotal role in moving the business from founder-led ways of working to a scalable, PE standard finance operation.
Duties
- Own day-to-day accounting operations, leading and developing three staff
- Introduce structure, policy and discipline into all accounting processes (AP / AR, bank, reconciliations, inventory accounting)
- Deliver a robust, timely month-end close with strong balance sheet control
- Prepare accurate management accounts and statutory accounts under UK GAAP
- Lead the year-end audit process and ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements
- Build and embed financial policies, authorisation frameworks and control procedures
- Implement weekly cashflow forecasting with daily visibility of key movements
- Strengthen credit control routines and supplier term management, including the progression of suppliers from upfront payment to payment terms
- Partner with operations and supply chain to optimise purchasing efficiency
- Build the first proper FP&A capability for the business delivering detailed pricing insight and margin analysis
- Produce monthly board reporting packs and lead forecasting, budgeting, scenario planning and KPI development
- Provide commercial and operational decision support across the business
- Lead (with support) finance systems / ERP improvements and automation initiatives
- Uplift the finance team through coaching, role clarity, structure and accountability
- Act as a trusted partner to operations, supply chain, commercial teams and the CEO
- Build credibility with the PE investors through accuracy, transparency and insight
Candidate Profile
Essential
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
- Strong working capital background with demonstrable improvement delivery
- Track record of strengthening financial controls and implementing standardised processes
- Experience managing small finance teams and uplifting capability
- Strong Excel and financial modelling skills
Desirable
- Experience within a PE-backed or investment-backed business
- Finance transformation or ERP implementation experience
- Exposure to multi-site or multi-service environments
- Experience of using / developing BI (Business Intelligence) tools e.g. PowerBi
Financial Controller employer: Head 4 Talent
Join a dynamic and rapidly expanding PE-backed manufacturing services group in Newbury, where you will play a crucial role as a Financial Controller in shaping the future of the finance function. With a strong emphasis on professional development, a collaborative work culture, and opportunities for impactful contributions, this company offers a supportive environment that values innovation and growth. Enjoy competitive benefits and the chance to lead a talented team while driving financial excellence in a thriving organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who have experience in PE-backed environments. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your achievements in financial controls and team management. When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your work speak for itself.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like the one in Newbury. Express your interest in their growth and how you can contribute as a Financial Controller.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow finance blogs, attend webinars, and join relevant groups. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also show your passion for the role and the sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Financial Controller role. Highlight your experience in financial controls, team management, and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive improvements in a finance function.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of how you've strengthened financial processes or led teams in the past, and don’t forget to mention your passion for supporting growth in a PE-backed environment.
Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your strong Excel and financial modelling skills shine through. If you’ve worked with BI tools like PowerBi, make sure to include that too! Demonstrating your technical abilities will set you apart from other candidates.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Head 4 Talent
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've improved working capital or strengthened financial controls in previous roles. Use specific examples to showcase your expertise.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a small finance team, so be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Share experiences where you've uplifted team capabilities or introduced structure and discipline in accounting processes. Highlight your coaching methods and how you foster accountability.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the manufacturing services sector and the challenges it faces, especially in a PE-backed environment. Be ready to discuss how you can partner with operations and supply chain teams to optimise efficiency and support growth through financial insights.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions around UK GAAP, month-end close processes, and financial modelling. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to explain how you've successfully managed audits and compliance in the past. This will show your readiness to handle the responsibilities of the role.
