At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial control and reporting while supporting sustainable heating solutions.
- Company: Kensa, a leader in ground source heat pump technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, career development, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Join a collaborative culture with opportunities for growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a purpose-driven business focused on sustainability.
- Qualifications: Professional accounting qualification and experience in financial control.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
Location: Exeter or Truro (Hybrid working)
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Lead strong financial foundations while helping make heating better for everyone. At Kensa, we're making heating better - for people, for the planet and for the future. Since 1999, we've been leading the way in ground source heat pump technology, delivering affordable, low-carbon heating solutions that support the UK's transition to net zero.
We're looking for a Group Financial Controller to lead financial control, reporting, compliance and accounting across the Kensa Group. This is a senior, influential role at the heart of our Finance function, providing the robust governance and high-quality information we need to grow sustainably. If you're a qualified finance professional with strong technical accounting knowledge, experience of group reporting and a track record of developing high-performing teams, this could be an opportunity to make a visible impact in a growing, purpose-driven business.
The role:
- Leading the Group's month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate and timely results
- Overseeing consolidated financial statements and reporting in line with relevant accounting standards
- Maintaining and continuously improving financial policies, procedures and internal control frameworks
- Ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, tax obligations and external audit processes
- Managing relationships with external auditors and coordinating audit work across all entities
- Overseeing accounts payable, accounts receivable, banking, payroll interfaces and the general ledger
- Maintaining robust balance sheet controls, reconciliations and audit-ready documentation
- Strengthening cash management, cash flow reporting and treasury processes
- Providing technical accounting support and clear financial insight to operational teams and senior leaders
- Partnering with FP&A to align actuals, forecasts and business performance
- Supporting the financial aspects of major projects, investments and strategic initiatives
- Leading, coaching and developing the finance team, with clear expectations and effective performance management
- Identifying opportunities to automate, streamline and standardise finance processes across the Group
- Improving the integration of financial and operational systems as Kensa continues to scale
What we're looking for:
- Professional accounting qualification - ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent
- Proven experience in a senior financial control or group accounting role, ideally within a multi-entity or fast-growing organisation
- Strong technical accounting knowledge and experience preparing consolidated group financial statements
- Experience managing audits, statutory reporting and compliance requirements
- Demonstrable leadership experience, with the ability to develop and manage a high-performing finance team
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with excellent attention to detail
- Confidence using financial systems and ERPs, including experience improving processes and controls
- The ability to explain complex financial information clearly to a range of audiences
- Strong organisation and the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- A clear commitment to accuracy, integrity, collaboration and continuous improvement
What we offer:
- 25 days' annual leave, increasing to 30 days after five years, plus bank holidays
- Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options where possible
- Career development support, including training and support for recognised qualifications
- Free 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme for you and your immediate family
- Private healthcare after one year of service
- Paid volunteering days to support community impact
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Company pension scheme with employer contributions
- A collaborative culture where your work directly supports the UK's transition to greener, more affordable heating
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities. If you need any adjustments during the application process, please let us know - we'll be happy to support you.
Group Financial Controller in Exeter employer: Kensa
Kensa is an excellent employer that fosters a supportive and dynamic work culture, offering a hybrid role that allows for flexibility while being based in the beautiful locations of Truro or Exeter. Employees benefit from hands-on experience in various aspects of finance, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development within a rapidly expanding company dedicated to nurturing talent and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Financial Controller in Exeter
✨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 Kensa. 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 Group Financial Controller in Exeter
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 Kensa.
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 Kensa'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 Kensa
✨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 Kensa.
✨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 Kensa 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 Kensa 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.
