At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance team and ensure accurate financial reporting across the Group.
- Company: HR Wallingford, a leader in sustainable water solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a motivated team and enhance financial processes in an international setting.
- Why this job: Shape financial strategy and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: CCAB or CIMA qualified with strong UK GAAP knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 95000 £ per year.
At HR Wallingford, we design smart, resilient solutions across the natural and built environments to help everyone live and work more sustainably with water. By harnessing research, data insights and the power of our collective expertise, we help the world to better understand the changing influence and impact of water.
We are currently looking to appoint a Group Financial Controller to lead our finance team.
About the role
The Group Financial Controller is responsible for leading the Finance team and ensuring the delivery of accurate, timely and insightful financial reporting across the Group. The role oversees all aspects of financial control, statutory and management reporting, compliance, taxation, treasury and financial operations for both the UK businesses and the Group's international subsidiaries. This position supports the CFO in shaping the financial strategy of the business and plays a key role in embedding a finance business‑partnering culture across scientific & engineering consultancy, software, equipment design divisions plus the owned Howbery Park business park. The role is central to maintaining a strong control environment, improving financial processes and enabling the Group to operate with clarity, efficiency and commercial focus.
Key responsibilities
- Financial Reporting & Control
- Audit, Governance & Compliance
- Taxation
- Treasury & Cash Management
- Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning
- International Subsidiaries
- Team Leadership & Development
- Commercial Support & Business Partnering
About you
- CCAB (ACA/ICAS/ACCA or equivalent) or CIMA qualified accountant.
- Strong knowledge of UK GAAP.
- Proven experience in a commercial, service‑based environment.
- Strong balance sheet discipline with experience in project accounting and financial controls.
- Demonstrable commercial acumen and ability to provide value‑adding financial insight.
- Advanced Excel skills and strong capability extracting and analysing information.
Desirable Skills and experience
- Experience working in an international group structure.
- Sector experience in engineering, scientific and/or consulting organisations.
- Experience improving financial systems and management information.
- Familiarity with UK GAAP and multi‑entity consolidations.
What Success looks like
- Timely, accurate and well‑controlled financial reporting.
- A skilled, motivated finance team.
- Continuous improvements in financial processes and controls.
- Clear, insightful reporting that enhances commercial decision‑making.
- Strong international financial governance.
- Effective cashflow and FX management.
- Finance embedded as a trusted business partner across the organisation.
Salary range: £85,000 to £95,000 dependant on experience. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workplace. We do not discriminate and work to create an inclusive culture across our business.
Group Financial Controller in Oxford employer: HR Wallingford
At HR Wallingford, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. As a Group Financial Controller, you will lead a dynamic finance team in a role that not only shapes financial strategy but also contributes to sustainable solutions for water management globally. With competitive salaries and a commitment to diversity, HR Wallingford provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Financial Controller in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know someone at HR Wallingford. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of UK GAAP and financial controls. We recommend practising common interview questions related to financial reporting and compliance to show you’re the right fit for the Group Financial Controller role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your commercial acumen! Be ready to discuss how you've added value in previous roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to provide insightful financial analysis that supports business decisions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at HR Wallingford.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Financial Controller in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Group Financial Controller. Highlight your experience in financial reporting, compliance, and team leadership, as these are key aspects of the job. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our finance team. Share specific examples of how you've improved financial processes or provided valuable insights in previous roles. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your CCAB or CIMA qualifications prominently. We’re looking for someone with strong knowledge of UK GAAP and experience in project accounting, so make sure these qualifications stand out in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates about your application status. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at HR Wallingford
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Group Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and reporting standards, especially UK GAAP. Be ready to discuss how you've used these in past roles to drive business decisions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a finance team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've developed and motivated teams in the past. Highlight any specific strategies you've implemented to improve team performance or foster a collaborative environment.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
HR Wallingford operates in a unique sector, so do your homework! Familiarise yourself with their projects and how financial insights can support their mission. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their needs.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in financial reporting or compliance and how you overcame them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
