At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive financial performance and provide insights for project success.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in a leading consultancy firm.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a diverse, international setting with strong career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on projects while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Finance qualification and 4-5 years of relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
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.
Senior Finance Project Controller employer: ICF
As a Senior Finance Project Controller with our Europe & Asia Business Management team, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. We offer competitive benefits, including opportunities for professional development and training, ensuring you grow alongside the company. Located in the UK, our commitment to employee well-being and a supportive environment makes us an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Project Controller
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like ICF. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Finance Project Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to ICF.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on ICF's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ICF
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with ICF.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at ICF will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former ICF employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.