At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial management and strategic direction in a purpose-driven organisation.
- Company: Join a fast-growing organisation dedicated to high-quality care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of financial leadership while supporting meaningful initiatives.
- Qualifications: CIMA/ACCA/ACA qualified or relevant experience in finance roles.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
This is a rare opportunity to join a purpose-driven organisation that is growing fast, in a financial leadership role that directly supports the delivery of high-quality care. As Financial Controller, you will take ownership of the finance function, ensuring strong financial foundations while also contributing to the strategic direction of the business. Your work will enable sustainable growth, support operational decision-making, and ensure that resources are used in a way that maximises impact for the people they support. This role combines hands-on financial management with strategic influence, making it ideal for someone who wants to be both technically excellent and commercially involved. There is also the opportunity to get involved in the new projects that are in the pipeline.
Financial Control & Reporting:
- Full ownership of the monthly close process, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting
- Preparation and presentation of monthly management accounts, including insightful variance analysis and commentary for Board reporting
- Development and tracking of key performance indicators (KPIs) to support strategic decision-making
- Maintenance of a robust control environment, including oversight of all transactional postings (sales, purchase ledger, payroll, banking, and credit cards)
- Ownership of balance sheet integrity, including monthly reconciliations across all key accounts
Cashflow & Budgeting:
- Lead cashflow management, including preparation of rolling forecasts and long-term cash planning
- Ownership and ongoing development of annual budgets and periodic reforecasts
- Proactive monitoring of working capital and liquidity to support business growth
Payroll & Operational Oversight:
- Oversight of the end-to-end payroll process (circa 65 employees), ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely delivery
- Review of payroll inputs including starters, leavers, statutory payments, and variable pay elements
- Management of payment processes, including BACS runs and controls
Commercial & Strategic Support:
- Business partnering with senior stakeholders to support pricing decisions, contract negotiations, and commercial initiatives
- Review and set-up of financial terms for new client contracts, including invoicing structures and cash collection schedules
- Ownership of contract pricing models and contribution analysis
- Support regulatory and operational initiatives (e.g. CQC compliance and local authority engagements)
- Seek out ways of incorporating IT innovations to make the accounting and management more efficient and effective
External Relationships & Governance:
- Primary point of contact for external stakeholders including bankers, auditors, accountants, and insurers
- Lead year-end process, including preparation of statutory accounts and coordination with external advisors
- Oversight of statutory compliance
Cost Management & Procurement:
- Lead negotiation and ongoing management of key supplier contracts (IT, telecoms, software, and other overheads)
- Drive cost optimisation initiatives across the business while maintaining service quality
- Ensure alignment of incentive structures with business performance and financial objectives
Experience & Knowledge:
- CIMA/ACCA/ACA qualified ideally although consideration will be given to anyone who can demonstrate a highly relevant practical experience at this level.
- Previously operated as a Financial Controller/Finance Manager or within a senior finance role.
- Management of a full finance function preferably within an SME environment.
- Strong understanding of management accounting, budgeting and forecasting, cashflow management, and payroll experience or oversight of payroll processes.
Desirable:
- Experience in healthcare, social care, or regulated sectors
- Understanding of local authority funding models and contracts
Skills & Approach:
- Commercially aware, able to connect financial performance to operational outcomes
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to communicate clearly to non-finance stakeholders
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Comfortable working in a hands-on, evolving environment
Personal Qualities:
- Values-led, with an appreciation for person-centred care and its importance
- Collaborative and approachable, able to build trust across the organisation
- Proactive and solution-focused
Financial Controller in Whickham employer: Sharp Consultancy
Join a purpose-driven organisation that prioritises high-quality care and offers a dynamic work environment for the Financial Controller role. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to influence strategic decisions while ensuring robust financial management. The company fosters a collaborative culture, providing meaningful work that maximises impact for the community, alongside competitive benefits and the chance to engage in innovative projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in Whickham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who work in healthcare or social care. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your financial management skills and understanding the specific challenges faced by the organisation. Show them you’re not just technically excellent but also commercially savvy!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your soft skills! Being collaborative and approachable is key in a role like Financial Controller. Share examples of how you've built trust and worked with teams to achieve financial goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and solution-focused, just like us!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in Whickham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Financial Controller role. Highlight your financial management expertise and any relevant experience in healthcare or regulated sectors to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your values align with our purpose-driven organisation. Be specific about how you can contribute to our financial leadership.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your past roles, focus on achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you've driven financial performance and supported strategic decision-making in previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sharp Consultancy
✨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. Prepare examples of how you've contributed to financial reporting and decision-making.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
This role isn't just about crunching numbers; it's about influencing strategy. Think of instances where you've partnered with senior stakeholders to drive business decisions. Be prepared to discuss how you can align financial performance with operational outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Hands-On Experience
The job requires a mix of technical skills and practical experience. Share specific examples of your involvement in cashflow management, budgeting, and payroll oversight. Highlight any improvements you've made in these areas to show your proactive approach.
✨Emphasise Your Collaborative Nature
Being approachable and collaborative is key in this role. Prepare to talk about how you've built trust with colleagues and external stakeholders. Discuss your experience in negotiating contracts or managing supplier relationships to showcase your interpersonal skills.
