Financial Controller - North in London

I am recruiting for an experienced Financial Controller from Big Four to join a Global business that has grown quickly by acquisition and is going through a big period of change and transformation. You will be managing a team of up to 5 people (UK and offshore), maintaining new processes and improving existing ones. The role includes responsibility for team leadership, month-end reporting activities, compliance obligations, and collaboration with stakeholders across the wider business.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate period-end financial close activities, ensuring reporting deadlines are achieved.
• Review and approve accounting entries within delegated authority limits.
• Consolidate financial results from multiple business units and prepare reporting packs for senior stakeholders.
• Present financial performance updates, including commentary on key variances, trends, and business drivers.
• Apply relevant accounting principles and standards in the preparation and review of financial information.
• Analyse balance sheet and profit and loss performance against budgets, forecasts, and prior periods.
• Partner with financial planning and business support teams to provide insight into operational and financial performance.
• Manage, mentor, and develop finance team members through regular coaching, feedback, and performance discussions.
• Support collaboration between internal teams operating across different locations and service functions.
• Contribute to group-level reporting requirements and finance transformation initiatives where required.
• Review balance sheet reconciliations and ensure identified issues are investigated and resolved appropriately.
• Monitor service delivery performance and ensure financial transactions are recorded accurately and consistently.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen reporting processes, internal controls, and operational efficiency.
• Support compliance activities, including taxation, statutory reporting, and regulatory requirements.
• Review payroll-related accounting entries and period-end accruals where applicable.
• Assist with internal and external audit processes and liaise with professional advisers when required.
• Promote high standards of communication, professionalism, and customer service across the finance function.
• Support the implementation of new processes, systems, and business initiatives.
• Undertake additional responsibilities as required to support business objectives.

Core Competencies

• Strong technical accounting and financial reporting expertise.
• Big Four background with industry experience.
• IFRS 15.
• SOX experience.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong understanding of financial controls, governance, and compliance requirements.
• Effective stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to drive process improvement and operational excellence.
• Ability to balance strategic priorities with hands-on delivery.

Skills and Experience

• Professionally qualified accountant or equivalent recognised qualification.
• Experience in financial control, reporting, or accounting leadership roles.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Proven ability to deliver high-quality work within tight deadlines.
• Experience supervising and developing team members.
• Strong financial analysis and reporting capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Adaptable and comfortable working in evolving environments.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet and financial reporting applications.