At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform a finance function in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
- Company: Join a dynamic, Private Equity-backed business with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £120,000 - £130,000 plus an outstanding benefits package.
- Other info: Significant exposure to senior leadership and genuine progression potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by building and mentoring a high-performing finance team.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in transforming finance functions and leading teams.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
Robert Half is partnering with a high-growth, Private Equity-backed business to appoint an exceptional Group Financial Controller on a permanent basis. This is a rare opportunity for an ambitious finance leader to transform, build and scale a finance function during a critical phase of growth.
Reporting directly to the CFO, you will take ownership of the entire finance operation, driving improvements across financial control, reporting, revenue recognition, working capital, systems, processes and team capability. This role requires far more than technical accounting expertise; we are seeking a proven leader who can identify opportunities for improvement, build high-performing teams and create a best-in-class finance function.
The Opportunity- Lead the transformation of a multi-entity finance function within a fast-paced, PE-backed environment.
- Build, develop and mentor a high-performing finance team across transactional finance, reporting and financial control.
- Drive improvements across Order-to-Cash (O2C), Procure-to-Pay (P2P) and Record-to-Report (R2R) processes.
- Strengthen financial governance, controls, reporting quality and operational efficiency.
- Partner closely with commercial and operational stakeholders to improve revenue recognition, margin performance and cash generation.
- Create scalable processes and controls capable of supporting future growth and acquisition activity.
- Lead month-end, year-end, statutory reporting, audit and group consolidation activities.
- Deliver finance transformation initiatives including process redesign, systems enhancement, automation and operating model improvements.
- Act as a key member of the senior leadership team, supporting strategic decision-making and business performance.
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
- Proven experience as a Group Financial Controller, Financial Controller or senior finance leader within a complex, multi-entity environment.
- Demonstrable track record of transforming finance functions and delivering measurable operational improvements.
- Experience building, developing and leading high-performing finance teams.
- Strong understanding of revenue recognition, contract accounting, margin analysis and working capital optimisation.
- Deep knowledge of financial controls, statutory reporting, audit, consolidations and governance.
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to influence senior stakeholders across the business.
- Experience operating within a B2B, contract-led or service-led environment.
- PE-backed, high-growth or transformation experience is highly desirable.
- Ambitious, hands-on and capable of operating at both strategic and operational levels.
- Opportunity to build and transform a finance function rather than simply maintain one.
- Significant exposure to the CFO, Executive Leadership Team and investors.
- Highly visible role with genuine progression potential.
- Opportunity to shape, develop and strengthen a growing finance team.
- £120,000 - £130,000 basic salary plus an outstanding benefits package.
This role will suit a high-calibre finance leader who combines technical excellence with proven transformation experience, strong leadership capability and the ambition to make a significant impact within a growing PE-backed business.
Group Financial Controller in Northampton employer: Robert Half
Robert Half is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for finance leaders to thrive in a dynamic, Private Equity-backed environment in Milton Keynes. With a focus on employee growth and development, the company fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and transformation within the finance function. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, industry-leading benefits, and significant exposure to senior leadership, making it an ideal place for ambitious professionals looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Financial Controller in Northampton
✨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 Robert Half. 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 in Northampton
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 Robert Half.
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 Robert Half'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 Robert Half
✨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 Robert Half.
✨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 Robert Half 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 Robert Half 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.
