Financial Controller in Glasgow

FirstPoint USA is the global leader in sports scouting and recruitment within the higher education sector, working with over 2,500 US universities to connect talented sportsmen and women with prestigious US scholarship opportunities. As we continue to scale our business and grow our global footprint, we are seeking a commercially minded, high-calibre Financial Controller to take the reins of our financial operations and help drive our strategic growth. This is a pivotal role for an experienced individual, undertaking and overseeing everything from day-to-day cost controls to long-term strategic forecasting. You will be a key adviser to the leadership team, ensuring our financial processes are as elite as the athletes we represent.

The Role:

• Reporting to the CEO, you will oversee the financial health of the organisation, leading the key financial aspects of the business, including:

Financial Management & Strategy

• Lead the annual budget planning process and provide rigorous monthly variance analysis.
• Develop and maintain robust rolling cash flow forecasts to support operational and investment decisions.
• Provide the CEO and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) with insightful financial reporting to guide commercial strategy.

Operational Controls & Processes

• Undertake all accounts processes including management accounting, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, VAT reporting and year end processes/audit.
• Review and enhance existing financial systems and internal controls to mitigate risk.
• Identify opportunities for process automation and efficiency within the finance function.

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure full compliance with all statutory regulations and tax requirements (VAT, Corporation Tax, etc.).
• Undertake preparation for and manage year-end audits and serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors.
• Maintain a high standard of corporate governance and financial integrity across the organization.

Business Partnering

• Act as a financial business partner to department heads, helping them manage their budgets effectively.
• Present financial performance data at senior leadership and board level.

The Candidate:

• Professional Qualification: You must be a fully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, or ICAS/CA).
• Proven Track Record: Experience in a financial management role (e.g., Management Accountant or Financial Controller).
• Strong knowledge of UK GAAP and current financial regulations.
• Systems Proficiency: Advanced Excel skills are a must; experience with modern ERP or accounting software (e.g., Access or Sage) is highly desirable.
• Experience in facing external auditors and managing outsource functions e.g. payroll.

Other Skills & Attributes

• Leadership: The ability to influence and lead by example.
• Communication: You can translate complex financial data into plain English for non-finance stakeholders.
• Analytical Mindset: A sharp eye for detail coupled with the ability to see the big picture.
• Adaptability: Comfortable in a fast-paced, international environment with the flexibility to manage a hybrid work schedule.

The Package:

• We believe in investing in our team's success and personal development.
• 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and Christmas furlough period).
• Your Birthday Off!
• Pension Scheme.
• Location: You will be based at our head office in Glasgow with hybrid/home-working options.