At a Glance
- Tasks: Build and own the finance function while implementing an ERP system.
- Company: Join a fast-growing cybersecurity business with a dynamic team in Bristol.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience and direct exposure to leadership in a thriving environment.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a PE-backed business with a strong M&A strategy.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping finance processes in a rapidly evolving company.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in building finance functions and integrating acquisitions.
The predicted salary is between 58500 - 71500 £ per year.
OnSecurity is a VCT-backed cybersecurity business — 63 people, headquartered in Bristol. Finance today is the CFO plus outsourced support. This is a build job, not a maintenance job. You'll own everything technical and operational below the CFO — building the group finance function at the same time as the group itself gets built — plus an ERP implementation over the next 6–12 months.
If you've built a finance function from scratch, integrated an acquisition as the finance owner, and want to do it again at real pace, this is that role.
What you'll own:
- Close and group consolidation — intercompany, cross-charges, eliminations
- Statutory accounts, audit and the auditor relationship
- Corporation tax, VAT, R&D claims, payroll compliance
- The ERP — chart design, configuration, cutover, and ownership afterwards
- Revenue recognition across subscription and delivered-services revenue
- The control environment across a growing group
- Integration of each acquired business onto our ledger, chart and systems
- Outsourced providers — bookkeeping, payroll bureau, acquired-entity support
Not in scope: commercial analysis, M&A origination, board pack, investor reporting, cash collection. The CFO owns those — this role is the technical and operational engine underneath.
What we're looking for:
- Qualified accountant — ACA or ACCA preferred
- Track record of building a finance function, not maintaining one — you've designed the close, written the controls, fixed what was broken
- Direct experience integrating an acquisition as the finance owner — taking an acquired ledger, mapping it to a new chart, bringing it into a group close
- Have run multi-entity consolidation yourself, including intercompany and eliminations
- Exposure to two or more entities, or two or more organisations, at FC level or one below
- Revenue recognition experience across both subscription and point-in-time delivery
- Led a system implementation end-to-end — selection through to cutover (any platform)
- Uses AI deliberately in finance workflows — and can show us what you've built, not just talk about it
- PE or VCT-backed business background
Where you'll fit best:
You've likely been an FC, Head of Finance, or a strong number two at a PE- or VC-backed buy-and-build platform, roughly £10m–£40m revenue, in services or tech, with two or more acquisitions behind you. Small enough that you built the process rather than inherited a team.
We welcome applicants from cyber, IT and managed services, professional services, agencies, hybrid software-and-services, and TIC backgrounds — the pattern of building group finance through acquisition transfers well across all of them.
Why OnSecurity:
We're at an inflection point — M&A strategy in motion, a real ERP decision ahead, and a finance function that needs someone to build it rather than run it as-is. You'll have direct exposure to the CFO and the wider leadership team, genuine ownership of the systems and processes you design, and a live, fast-moving buy-and-build story to build your career on.
Group Financial Controller employer: Onsecurity
OnSecurity is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a significant impact in the finance sector, particularly within the dynamic cybersecurity industry. With a strong focus on building a robust finance function from the ground up, employees benefit from direct exposure to leadership, opportunities for rapid career growth, and the chance to implement innovative systems in a fast-paced environment. Located in Bristol, the company fosters a collaborative work culture that values initiative and creativity, making it an ideal place for ambitious professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Financial Controller
✨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 Onsecurity. 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
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 Onsecurity.
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 Onsecurity'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 Onsecurity
✨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 Onsecurity.
✨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 Onsecurity 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 Onsecurity 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.
