Commercial & Programmes Controller NW Europe
Commercial & Programmes Controller NW Europe

Commercial & Programmes Controller NW Europe

Hemel Hempstead Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage sales forecasting and programme accounting for NW Europe in a hybrid work model.
  • Company: Join Smiths Detection, a global leader enhancing safety with innovative technology across 55 countries.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, opportunities for global collaboration, and a diverse, inclusive workplace.
  • Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team impacting critical systems worldwide while developing your skills.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in IFRS standards and sales forecasting; proficiency in MS Office and SAP required.
  • Other info: Foreign language skills, especially Hebrew, are a plus; we value diversity and inclusion.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

SMITHS DETECTION MAKING THE WORLD A SAFER PLACE

Every minute of every day, in nearly every country across the globe, Smiths Detection people and technology make the world a safer place. We safeguard people, business and infrastructure with the latest innovations and screening technology for aviation, ports, borders, defense, and security across 55 countries around the globe

Life At Smiths –

  • Global leader : We impact critical systems every day with sites in 17 countries and six centers of research excellence. From pioneering to powering life-changing innovation, we’re delivering threat detection and screening solutions to safeguard the world from threat
  • Digital growth : A key part of our capability is the integration of digital technology across our business and our operations in more than 55 countries, will be critical to our continued success
  • Exciting opportunities : Our growth is creating exciting opportunities to work with experts in physics, chemistry, electronics, mechanics, production, computer science, and AIML
  • International environment : With some projects, work requires global collaboration and the potential to travel and grow with the business
  • The Role:

    Based at our Centre of Excellence in Hemel Hempstead, we operate a hybrid working model, minimum of 2 days a week in the office.

    As Commercial & Programmes controller, you will be responsible for managing the sales forecasting (Order Intake, Revenue & Margin) processes and all programme accounting for the NW Europe region (UK, Ireland and Israel). Sales forecasting occurs in a variety of ways: 5 year strategic plan, annual budget, formal revised forecasts and monthly rolling forecast.

    This role is responsible for keeping all those forecasts aligned and up to date with the latest commercial information and providing variance explanations as required. A large part of Smiths Detection’s revenue comes from programme sales of equipment; this role will need to forecast that revenue (in accordance with IFRS15) and ensure appropriate revenue recognition occurs at month end, as well as maintaining programmes accounting closing balances (deferred revenue, WIP, Unbilled etc).

    Duties and Responsibilities (Includes but not limited to)

  • Oversea the maintenance of the rolling monthly Market Review forecast for Order Intake and Revenue looking forward 18 months for the NW Europe market (UK, Ireland & Israel).
  • Stay up to date on developments with Programmes, Sales & Operations to understand status of Orders & Revenue and ensure the rolling forecasts, annual Budget, programmes accounting and invoicing is updated accordingly.
  • Flag significant issues to NW Europe market management where appropriate. Explain & justify movements in Forecast and differences vs. actual numbers booked.
  • Manage all IFRS15 issues (in conjunction with the UK Financial Controller) related to Programmes, to ensure accounting & forecast accuracy.
  • Monthly review of all programmes balances (WIP, deferred revenue, unbilled), raising accruals or other entries as appropriate. Stay current on global commercial initiatives (new products, current strategy etc) to advise of impacts for NW Europe market, actively contributing towards the forecast & Budget process.
  • Manage preparation of weekly KPIs for Market Head & monthly Market Review presentations and data submissions to Divisional HQ.
  • Support UK Financial Controller with commercial variance explanations required for internal reporting and external audit purposes.
  • Preparation of financial modelling supporting bids & tenders for programmes. Support Sales with reviews of detail of pricing quoted in tender documents for accuracy.
  • Ensure all internal controls and accounting policies regarding programmes accounting and bids & tenders are followed. Recommend improvements to the same where appropriate. Develop close working relationships in a cross-functional market matrix team to enable good communication & understanding of issues.
  • Lead Revenue and Order Intake for the annual Budget & Strat Plan (5-year forecast) process.
  • Use Smiths Excellence System LEAN tools to actively refine and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the forecasting & budgeting process.
  • Monitor & drive improvements in SAP data accuracy entered by Sales and Ops teams. Work with Order-to-Invoice team to ensure all programme invoicing occurs on schedule.
  • Manage a team delivering all of the above.
  • About You:

  • Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA ,CIMA or equivalent)
  • Good knowledge or experience of IFRS standards, especially IFRS15 accounting for programmes with detailed knowledge of IncoTerms and related revenue recognition issues.
  • Experience of commercial sales forecasting & analysis for decision making.
  • Commercially astute and used to working in an international, matrix environment.
  • Professional, succinct and confident communicator to senior leadership.
  • Good MS office / Excel, SAP and management information systems (Oracle EPBCS) skills.
  • Detailed knowledge of SAP programme accounting; WBS structures, ZPLANS and reporting.
  • Foreign language skills (especially Hebrew) an advantage.
  • Diversity & Inclusion

    We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity. We have several employee-led Employee Resources Groups ( , Black Employees Network, Veterans, Pride Network) providing support, enhancing career development, and contributing to personal development in the work environment and beyond.

    Commercial & Programmes Controller NW Europe employer: Smiths Detection

    At Smiths Detection, we pride ourselves on being a global leader in safety technology, offering our employees a dynamic work environment in Hemel Hempstead that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a hybrid work model and opportunities for international projects, we support your professional growth while ensuring a diverse and inclusive culture where every voice is valued. Join us to make a meaningful impact in safeguarding communities worldwide.
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    Contact Detail:

    Smiths Detection Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Commercial & Programmes Controller NW Europe

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Familiarise yourself with IFRS15 and revenue recognition issues, as these are crucial for the role. Consider brushing up on your knowledge through online courses or webinars to demonstrate your commitment and expertise during the interview.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Network with professionals in the finance and accounting sectors, especially those who have experience in international environments. Engaging with them can provide insights into the company culture at Smiths Detection and may even lead to referrals.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare to discuss your experience with sales forecasting and analysis in detail. Think of specific examples where you successfully managed forecasts and how you handled any discrepancies, as this will showcase your problem-solving skills.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    If you have foreign language skills, particularly in Hebrew, be sure to highlight these during your discussions. This could set you apart from other candidates and show your ability to work in diverse teams.

    We think you need these skills to ace Commercial & Programmes Controller NW Europe

    Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent)
    Experience with IFRS standards, especially IFRS15
    Sales Forecasting and Analysis
    Commercial Acumen
    Effective Communication Skills
    Proficiency in MS Office
    Experience with SAP and Oracle EPBCS
    Detailed Knowledge of SAP Programme Accounting
    Financial Modelling and Pricing Accuracy
    Team Management Skills
    LEAN Tools for Process Improvement
    Data Analysis and KPI Preparation
    Ability to Explain Variances
    Attention to Detail
    Adaptability in International Environments

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the role of Commercial & Programmes Controller. Emphasise your qualifications in accounting, sales forecasting, and any experience with IFRS standards.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Smiths Detection's mission and how your background makes you a great fit for the role. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage sales forecasting and programme accounting.

    Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency in MS Office, SAP, and Oracle EPBCS. If you have foreign language skills, especially Hebrew, make sure to mention them as they could set you apart from other candidates.

    Showcase Leadership Experience: Since the role involves managing a team, include examples of your leadership experience. Discuss how you've successfully led teams in previous roles, particularly in international or matrix environments.

    How to prepare for a job interview at Smiths Detection

    ✨Understand IFRS15 Inside Out

    Since the role requires experience with IFRS standards, especially IFRS15, make sure you brush up on your knowledge of revenue recognition issues. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these standards in previous roles and any challenges you've faced.

    ✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen

    As a Commercial & Programmes Controller, being commercially astute is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've contributed to sales forecasting and analysis in past positions. Highlight your understanding of market dynamics and how they influence financial outcomes.

    ✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

    You'll be managing a team, so it's important to showcase your leadership abilities. Think of specific instances where you've led a team through challenges or improved processes. Discuss your approach to mentoring and developing team members.

    ✨Familiarise Yourself with SAP and Financial Modelling

    Proficiency in SAP and financial modelling is key for this role. Brush up on your skills and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in your previous work. If possible, prepare to share insights on how you've improved data accuracy and reporting efficiency.

    Commercial & Programmes Controller NW Europe
    Smiths Detection
    Location: Hemel Hempstead
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    • Commercial & Programmes Controller NW Europe

      Hemel Hempstead
      Full-Time
      36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.)
    • S

      Smiths Detection

      1000-5000
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