Controller, EMEA West Region (Financial Controller / Finance Manager)

About Morningstar

Morningstar is a leading global provider of independent investment insights, serving both individual and institutional investors across public and private markets. Our offerings include data, research, and investment management services, with assets under management. Operating in multiple countries, Morningstar supports financial professionals and investors worldwide.

The Team

Morningstar is looking for a Controller for the EMEA West region to join our global Finance team, focused on business partnership, innovation, automation, and process improvement.

The Role

Controller - EMEA West, London — lead local financial reporting and accounting appropriate for a publicly traded U.S. corporation for UK, Middle East and Africa operations. The role reports to the EMEA Regional Controller and assists in planning, forecasting, and analyzing local financial results, working with business groups and other Finance teams to provide financial insight and decision support. This is a full-time position with a hybrid work model (in the office four days per week).

Responsibilities

• Oversee general accounting functions, including monthly close, financial audits, and tax/statutory reporting with support from U.S. and shared services accounting and finance teams.
• Optimize the local finance team structure to support the needs of the countries, including training, mentoring, and career development.
• Maintain and champion internal controls and processes appropriate for a U.S. publicly traded company to achieve global harmonization.
• Lead an efficient financial reporting process and month-end close to produce timely and accurate financial reports in line with Morningstar's global accounting policies.
• Partner with the EMEA West regional leaders and other areas of Finance to ensure forecast and budget accuracy, identify gaps, and implement solutions.
• Identify and lead system and process improvement initiatives to support global standardization, including the use of shared service capabilities within Finance.
• Oversee statutory reporting requirements in the region, including regulatory submissions to the FCA, ensuring timely submission and regulatory compliance.
• Lead and oversee project work including system implementations, M&A activities, and process improvements; participate in global transformation projects.
• Coordinate with local external advisers for audit, tax, payroll, insurance, and other compliance activities.
• Provide additional matrix management for the UK facilities function; serve as director for local legal entities as needed.
• Assist with transfer pricing and other tax planning in collaboration with the corporate team.
• Prepare accounting memorandums and local policy documentation; perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with a degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years' progressive accounting and finance experience within a multinational organization.
• Extensive experience in financial close, consolidation, and reporting across multiple legal entities; knowledge of SOX/internal controls.
• Proven people leader with a track record of building high-performing teams and influencing stakeholders across global finance functions.
• Strong commercial and strategic acumen; ability to translate financial data into actionable business decisions.
• Deep understanding of financial structures, value drivers, and performance management; highly detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy, governance, and controls.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines; continuous improvement mindset with a proactive, solutions-focused approach.
• Knowledge of UK GAAP and/or US GAAP preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

Base Salary Range: GBP 68,200.00 – 95,333.33; Bonus Target: 15% annually. Compensation offers depend on qualifications and experience. Morningstar’s hybrid work environment allows in-person collaboration weekly; four days in-office in most locations. A range of benefits is available to support flexibility and well-being.

Additional Information

Morningstar Europe Ltd (UK) is the legal entity. Morningstar is committed to equal opportunity in employment and to an inclusive workplace free from discrimination, in line with applicable laws.