At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function and shape financial strategy in a growing construction SME.
- Company: Established construction sector SME with a focus on sustainable growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private medical insurance, generous holiday, and pension contributions.
- Other info: Hands-on role with opportunities for mentorship and career development.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on financial decision-making.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with experience in construction sector accounting.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are working exclusively with a well-established, privately owned construction sector SME to appoint a Financial Controller. This is a key leadership role within a growing and ambitious business, offering the opportunity to shape financial strategy while remaining close to day-to-day operations. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will play a pivotal role in supporting commercial decision‑making, driving financial discipline, and ensuring the business is well‑positioned for sustainable growth.
This is a hands‑on, senior position suited to a commercially minded finance professional who enjoys operating at both strategic and operational levels. You will be a core member of the Senior Leadership Team, providing clear financial insight and constructive challenge to support business performance.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the finance function, ensuring robust financial controls, governance, and compliance
- Deliver accurate and insightful monthly management accounts and reporting
- Drive budgeting, forecasting, and long‑term financial planning
- Provide meaningful financial analysis to support operational and strategic decisions
- Manage cash flow, working capital, and financial risk
- Oversee statutory requirements including VAT, CIS, payroll, and tax compliance
- Maintain and develop relationships with banks, advisors, and external stakeholders
- Lead, mentor, and develop a small finance team
- Take ownership of finance systems and continuous process improvement
- Fully qualified accountant (ACCA / ACA / CIMA) or Qualified by experience with significant time served in construction sector accounting
- Proven experience within the construction sector (essential)
- Strong understanding of CIS, subcontractor compliance, and project‑based accounting
- Experience operating at a senior level within an SME environment
- Commercially astute, with the ability to translate financial data into practical insight
- Hands-on, proactive, and comfortable taking full ownership of the finance function
- Confident communicator, able to influence across all levels of the business
- Starting salary £55,000 - £60,000
- Private medical insurance
- Sickness pay (up to 1 month)
- 33 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
- 5% employer pension contribution
- Life Assurance
- 39‑hour working week (08:30-5pm), early finish on Fridays
- Modern, spacious office - shared with 2 others in finance
- Office based with plenty of secure, free parking
Financial Controller in Carlisle employer: Heidi Wright Recruitment
Join a dynamic and ambitious privately owned construction SME as a Financial Controller, where you will have the unique opportunity to shape financial strategy while being closely involved in day-to-day operations. With a supportive work culture that values professional growth, you will benefit from a competitive salary, private medical insurance, generous holiday allowance, and a modern office environment with ample parking. This role not only offers a chance to lead a finance team but also to make a significant impact on the company's sustainable growth trajectory.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Financial Controller role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of CIS and project-based accounting. Be ready to discuss how you've driven financial discipline in previous roles, as this will show you're the hands-on leader they need.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Use our website to find roles that excite you and tailor your approach to each one, highlighting your relevant experience in the construction sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them why you're the perfect fit for their Financial Controller position.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Financial Controller role. Highlight your construction sector experience and any relevant qualifications, like ACCA or CIMA, to grab our attention!
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 hands-on role. Share specific examples of how you've driven financial strategy and supported decision-making in previous positions.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a core member of our Senior Leadership Team, we want to see your leadership style. Mention any experience you have in mentoring finance teams or leading projects, as this will demonstrate your ability to influence and drive performance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heidi Wright Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the construction sector, such as cash flow management and project-based accounting. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics to drive decision-making in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leading a finance team and influencing across the business. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your mentoring experience and how you've developed others in their finance careers.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities within the construction sector. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the company's growth strategy and ensure financial discipline. This shows that you're not just a numbers person but also a strategic thinker.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle financial risks. Think of scenarios where you've had to make tough financial decisions or manage compliance issues. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
