At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial operations and provide strategic support to the leadership team.
- Company: Join a leading recruitment company with a strong presence across Europe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible working, and generous benefits package.
- Other info: Great career progression opportunities as the business scales.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Financial Controller, ideally in recruitment or Big 4 accountancy.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About Optimus Search: Optimus Search is a leading recruitment company specializing in technology, life sciences, and engineering sectors. With an extensive client base and a strong presence across Europe and beyond, we are committed to delivering exceptional talent solutions to our clients. As we continue to expand and grow, we are looking for a highly skilled and experienced Financial Controller to join our dynamic team.
The Role: As Financial Controller, you will play a pivotal role in managing the financial operations of Optimus Search. Reporting directly to the Finance Director, you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of our financial processes, implementing strong financial controls, and providing insightful financial reporting. You will also help guide key business decisions, ensuring financial compliance and delivering robust financial strategies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee all aspects of financial management, including monthly and annual accounts, budgeting, and forecasting.
- Ensure accurate and timely reporting of financial performance to senior management.
- Drive the preparation of monthly management accounts, balance sheets, and profit & loss statements.
- Develop and implement financial controls and procedures to improve operational efficiency and mitigate financial risk.
- Manage cash flow, working capital, and ensure robust reporting on client billing and recruitment margins.
- Provide strategic support and financial insight to the leadership team, assisting with business planning and decision-making.
- Liaise with external auditors, tax advisors, and financial institutions to ensure compliance with all statutory requirements.
- Monitor key financial KPIs and report variances to help drive business performance.
- Oversee payroll and employee benefit processes.
Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will come from a background in either the recruitment industry or have Big 4 accountancy experience, bringing a solid understanding of financial operations, compliance, and performance metrics within a fast-paced and high-growth environment. You will be a highly organized and motivated individual with a strong eye for detail and the ability to communicate financial information effectively.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Proven experience in a Financial Controller role, ideally within the recruitment sector or with Big 4 accountancy experience (e.g., EY, Deloitte, PwC, KPMG).
- Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards, VAT, and tax compliance.
- Experience with financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting in a fast-paced business environment.
- High proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel (experience with Xero, QuickBooks, or similar is a plus).
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to work closely with senior management and non-financial stakeholders.
- Experience managing financial controls and improving operational efficiencies.
- ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or similar qualification is preferred.
Why Join Optimus Search?
- Competitive salary and performance-related bonus.
- Opportunity to work with a talented, dynamic, and growing team.
- Flexible working arrangements (hybrid or remote options).
- Exposure to an exciting, fast-paced recruitment business in a high-growth phase.
- Career progression opportunities as the business continues to scale.
- Generous benefits package including health insurance, pension scheme, and more.
How to Apply: If you are an experienced Financial Controller with a background in recruitment or Big 4 accountancy, we would love to hear from you! Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you would be a great fit for the role.
Financial Controller employer: Optimus Search
Optimus Search is an exceptional employer for aspiring Graduate Recruitment Consultants, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of London. With competitive starting salaries and the potential for uncapped commissions, employees are encouraged to thrive and grow within the company, benefiting from rapid career progression and a supportive team environment that celebrates success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend networking events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at Optimus Search. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interview by researching Optimus Search and understanding their values and goals. Practice common interview questions and think of examples from your experience that showcase your skills as a Financial Controller. Confidence is key!
✨Showcase Your Skills
During interviews or networking chats, highlight your financial expertise and how it aligns with the needs of Optimus Search. Use specific examples of how you've improved financial processes or contributed to strategic decisions in past roles.
✨Follow Up
After your interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also keeps you on their radar. A little follow-up can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Financial Controller role. Highlight your experience in financial management, compliance, and any relevant software skills. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for Optimus Search. Share specific examples of your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your proficiency in accounting software and your understanding of UK accounting standards. We’re keen on candidates who can demonstrate their technical skills and how they’ve used them to improve financial processes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optimus Search
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you understand the business's financial health and can contribute to Optimus Search's success.
✨Showcase Your Compliance Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with UK accounting standards, VAT, and tax compliance. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous positions. This will highlight your ability to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of scenarios where you've improved financial processes or managed cash flow effectively. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly.
✨Communicate Clearly with Non-Financial Stakeholders
Since you'll be liaising with senior management and non-financial staff, practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. This will show your ability to bridge the gap between finance and other departments, making you a valuable asset to the team.
