At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance for two businesses, improving controls and reporting in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Dynamic private equity-backed group in the UK construction sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to shape finance processes.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and drive change in an evolving business landscape.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformation journey, making a real impact on financial operations.
- Qualifications: Experience in financial control, strong leadership, and a proactive approach.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A high-growth, private equity-backed group within the UK construction/infrastructure supply chain is hiring a Financial Controller to take ownership of finance across two recently acquired operating businesses in the North West. This is a hands-on, sleeves-rolled-up role where you’ll steady the ship short-term (controls, reconciliations, month-end, cash) and help lead the journey toward stronger reporting, improved systems and a more scalable finance model. You’ll be the on-site finance lead and the key link between local operational teams and the wider Group finance function, bringing structure, pace and clarity in an environment that’s entrepreneurial, fast-moving and evolving. Over time, as a new ERP is embedded and shared services capability matures, the role will naturally shift toward value-add partnering, supporting operational leaders with sharper MI, better decision-making and improved commercial outcomes.
The Role
- Own the end-to-end finance agenda for two operational entities (c.£20–25m combined turnover) in a lean environment.
- Join during a genuine transformation phase: strengthening controls, improving reporting, embedding systems and governance.
- Perfect for a high‑calibre Management Accountant stepping up or an experienced Financial Controller who enjoys change, autonomy and building “proper finance” in a business that needs it.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Control, Month‑End & Reporting
- Produce monthly management accounts (P&L, balance sheet, reconciliations, variance analysis).
- Strengthen financial controls and improve the quality, consistency and timeliness of MI.
- Own budgeting, forecasting and KPI development, moving reporting from “basic” to decision‑useful.
- Cash, Working Capital & Compliance
- Drive cashflow forecasting, working capital discipline and cash collection, working alongside central support functions.
- Oversee statutory and tax compliance requirements (including VAT and CIS) with appropriate external/central support.
- Operational / Contract Accounting
- Support project and contract‑based activity, including WIP and job profitability where projects span multiple months.
- Translate numbers into practical insight for non‑financial stakeholders, helping operational leaders improve margins and performance.
- Systems & Integration
- Play a key role in embedding a new ERP (NetSuite) locally, working with central system expertise rather than being left to “sink or swim”.
- Improve processes and standardisation in readiness for a future shared services model.
- People & Stakeholder Management
- Support small on‑site transactional resource (currently limited and mixed capability) and shape “what good looks like” going forward.
- Build strong working relationships across local leadership and Group finance—this role succeeds through influence, credibility and delivery.
About You
- Proven experience as an Area Manager (or equivalent multi‑site role).
- Background in retail or hospitality (customer‑led, fast‑paced environments essential).
- Strong people leader with a track record of developing managers and teams.
- Commercially astute with the ability to balance people, standards and results.
- Confident working autonomously in a field‑based role.
- Comfortable operating in a compliance‑led environment.
- Approachable, credible and able to build rapport quickly at all levels.
- Full UK driving licence.
What’s on Offer
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA).
- Strong management accounts and financial control capability, ideally in an operational, project‑based or contracting environment.
- Comfortable in a manual / imperfect environment—someone who will improve it, not complain about it.
- Confident partnering with operational leaders who may be less finance‑led—you can simplify, challenge and move things forward.
- Systems mindset (NetSuite knowledge helpful but not essential)—you’re able to work with a central systems lead and drive adoption on‑site.
- A proactive, energetic style: not a “processor”—you bring pace, pragmatism and strength of character.
The Legal Bit
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age. By applying for this role, you are explicitly consenting for McCarthy Recruitment to hold and process your data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations. And your details will be added to our holding database. We process certain personal information about you for our legitimate business interests to identify and contact suitable candidates about positions that may be relevant to them. Details are set out in our privacy policy at privacy. If you wish to exercise your right to access, erase or restrict the processing of your data please contact us at the office and we will respond to your query.
Senior Financial Controller in Wigan employer: McCarthy Recruitment
Join a dynamic and entrepreneurial private equity-backed group in the North West, where you will play a pivotal role as a Senior Financial Controller. This position offers a hands-on approach to finance, with opportunities for professional growth in a fast-paced environment that values innovation and collaboration. Enjoy a supportive work culture that encourages autonomy and development, while being part of a transformative journey towards enhanced financial systems and reporting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Financial Controller in Wigan
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and construction sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute to their growth. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Financial Controller. Highlight your hands-on approach and ability to improve financial systems. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Financial Controller in Wigan
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Senior Financial Controller. Highlight your experience in financial control, month-end reporting, and any hands-on roles you've had in similar environments. We want to see how you can bring structure and clarity to our finance function!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. Share specific examples of how you've improved financial processes or led teams through change—this will help us see your potential impact.
Showcase Your Systems Knowledge:If you have experience with ERP systems like NetSuite, make sure to mention it! Even if you don't, highlight your ability to adapt to new technologies and improve processes. We’re looking for someone who can help us embed new systems effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to join our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at McCarthy Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've improved reporting and controls in previous roles. Be specific about your achievements with numbers—this will show you can translate data into actionable insights.
✨Showcase Your Change Management Skills
This role is all about transformation, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led change in finance processes or systems. Discuss your experience with ERP implementations or improving financial controls, and highlight your proactive approach to overcoming challenges.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
You'll be the link between local teams and the wider finance function, so it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to build relationships. Prepare to talk about how you've influenced non-financial stakeholders in the past and how you can simplify complex financial concepts for them.
✨Emphasise Your Autonomy and Proactivity
This position requires someone who can work independently and take initiative. Share instances where you've thrived in a lean environment, showcasing your ability to drive results without constant oversight. Highlight your energetic style and how it contributes to a fast-paced, entrepreneurial setting.
