Senior Finance Project Controller in London

Permanent position with the Europe & Asia Business Management team to drive the financial performance of ICF activities.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor, analyse and interpret project financial performance in close collaboration with Project Managers and Directors.
• Conduct project re‑forecasting and cost‑to‑complete reviews in line with ICF policies to ensure accurate and compliant revenue recognition.
• Provide actionable insights, variance analysis and recommendations to support strategic and operational decision‑making.
• Present monthly financial performance, risks and opportunities to Senior Leadership.
• Review contracts – including inter‑company agreements – and set up projects in the ERP system in accordance with contract terms, SOX regulations and internal controls.
• Maintain project financial data throughout the lifecycle, ensuring completeness and compliance.
• Support the maintenance of contract documents, agreements and variation orders.
• Ensure revenue is recognised correctly and consistently across all projects, fully aligned with accounting standards and internal policies.
• Prepare and deliver management reporting packages (MIS) including revenue, cost analysis, margin movements and detailed commentary.
• Prepare timely and accurate client billing in coordination with Project Managers.
• Monitor aged debts, collaborate with Treasury on collections and support actions to reduce WIP and overdue balances.
• Contribute to cash flow estimates and forecasting.
• Calculate and post monthly subcontractor and freelancer accruals, ensuring completeness and correct cut‑off.
• Support month‑end close activities including reconciliations and preparation of financial reports.
• Lead or participate in project financial reviews to identify risks, required write‑downs, claims handling and necessary corrective actions.
• Train and support Project Managers on financial project management processes, best practices and compliance requirements.
• Build strong working relationships with PMs and internal stakeholders to ensure high‑quality financial governance.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing required documentation and evidence.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of financial controls, checklists and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform ad‑hoc duties and analysis as assigned to support business needs.

Qualifications – Basic Requirements:

• Finance qualification such as MBA, M.Com, CMA or equivalent.
• 4–5 years of relevant experience in project finance, project controllership or financial project administration within service or consultancy environments.
• Strong understanding of revenue recognition principles and financial standards (ASC 606, IFRS, US GAAP).
• Advanced MS Excel skills (pivot tables, look‑ups, formulas, modelling).
• Proficiency in MS PowerPoint; Power BI experience is an advantage.
• Experienced user of financial/ERP systems (Maconomy strongly preferred or willingness to learn quickly).
• High numerical accuracy and strong analytical skills.
• Experience working in a matrix organisation across multiple geographies (Europe/Asia/India).

Personal Qualities:

• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines with high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proactive, self‑motivated and committed to continuous learning and development.
• Able to organise, prioritise and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong stakeholder management and ability to build constructive relationships with PMs, finance teams and leadership.
• Problem‑solving mindset with a "can-do" attitude.
• Team player who collaborates effectively across functions and regions.

Location and Right to Work:

Role is based in the United Kingdom. Successful candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK or be eligible for sponsorship on a case‑by‑case basis and be physically located in the UK on Day 1 of employment.