Financial Controller in London

The Financial Controller is responsible for leading the financial control, compliance and reporting framework across all Japan House London entities. The role ensures robust financial management, effective governance and regulatory compliance, while providing high-quality financial information, insight and support to enable informed decision-making and long-term organisational sustainability. As a senior member of the Finance team, the Financial Controller will lead the day-to-day finance function, manage a small team and contribute to the continuous improvement of financial systems, processes and controls.

Key Relationships

• Internal: Finance Director, Finance Team, Executive Management Committee, Budget Holders and Department Managers
• External: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Auditors, Bankers, HMRC, Suppliers and other stakeholders

Financial Control & Compliance

• Lead the financial control environment across all legal entities, ensuring accurate accounting records, appropriate controls and compliance with statutory, regulatory and organisational requirements.
• Oversee the preparation of statutory accounts, audit schedules, VAT compliance, ONS reporting and other external reporting obligations.
• Maintain and improve finance policies, procedures, delegated authority controls and financial governance frameworks.

Statutory Accounts & Audit

• Lead the year-end close process and preparation of statutory accounts for all entities under the direction of Finance Director.
• Coordinate the external audit process, acting as a key point of contact for auditors and ensuring timely delivery of audit information.
• Ensure audit findings and control recommendations are addressed effectively.

Treasury, Banking & Cash Flow

• Oversee cash flow management, treasury operations, banking relationships and working capital controls.
• Ensure appropriate oversight of liquidity, bank reconciliations, payment approvals and foreign currency exposure.
• Maintain strong controls over bank mandates, payment processes and cash handling arrangements.

Balance Sheet & Accounting Control

• Ensure regular review and reconciliation of balance sheet accounts, control accounts, intercompany balances, accruals, prepayments and fixed assets.
• Oversee month-end and year-end accounting processes to ensure completeness, accuracy and appropriate accounting treatment.
• Review journals, reconciliations and supporting schedules prepared by the Finance team.
• Support with information requirements on Board and Committee matters.
• Ensuring all aspects of MoFA funding requirements are adhered to in a timely manner.

VAT, Tax & Regulatory Reporting

• Oversee VAT compliance across all entities, including review of returns and supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with HMRC requirements and other relevant statutory obligations.
• Oversee ONS submissions and other compliance reporting requirements.

Procurement & Governance

• Ensure effective financial oversight of procurement, purchase order controls, and delegated authority arrangements.
• Support compliance with procurement policies and value-for-money requirements.
• Strengthen financial governance, documentation and approval processes across the organisation.

Team Management

• Manage the delivery of accounts payable, accounts receivable, credit control, reconciliations, supplier payments and finance administration.
• Lead, develop and support the Finance Accountant, Accounts Executive and Accounts Assistant.
• Ensure clear responsibilities, appropriate segregation of duties and resilience within the Finance team.

Other Duties

• Provide support and cover for the Financial Planning & Analysis Manager and other members of the Finance team as required.
• Contribute to cross-functional projects and organisational initiatives to support effective financial management and organisational objectives.
• Contribute to finance system transformation and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the level and responsibilities of the role.

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

Essential:

• Fully qualified accountant, ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent.
• Significant experience in a Financial Controller, Finance Manager or senior finance role.
• Experience preparing statutory accounts and managing external audits.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience managing VAT, tax and regulatory reporting requirements.
• Ability to present financial information clearly and concisely.
• Strong organisational, communication, and prioritisation skills.
• High attention to detail and professional judgement.
• Experience working in a cross-cultural environment.
• Demonstrate and role‑model Japan House London Values: Omotenashi, Integrity, Shared Passion, Cultivation, and Open‑ness.

Desirable:

• Experience within a multi‑entity organisation, including knowledge of charity or not-for-profit accounting.
• Experience with Xero or similar cloud-based finance systems.
• Experience supporting procurement and contract governance.

Work Environment

The role is based at Japan House London, Kensington High Street. JHL operates a flexible hybrid working model, with regular office attendance expected of at least 1 day per week, with the expectation to adjust in line with business and team requirements. Some duties may be carried out in Japan House London public spaces. Occasional attendance at events, meetings and activities outside normal working hours may be required. Normal working hours are 35 hours per week, with core hours from 10am to 3pm.

Benefits

• Generous holiday allowance – up to 36 days per year, inclusive of public and bank holidays.
• Group life insurance scheme.
• Remote GP service.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Employee discount for the Japan House Shop and Stand Discount platform for high street shops.
• Access to perks and discounts local to Kensington High Street, London.
• Personal learning budget after 6 months’ service.

Japan House London is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion among our workforce. You are encouraged to apply even if your experience doesn't precisely match the job description. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds and identities, and particularly welcome those from under-represented groups.