At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial reporting and support business operations in a dynamic tech environment.
- Company: Join Smokeball, a global leader in legal practice management software.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, wellbeing allowance, and performance-based incentives.
- Other info: Dynamic, inclusive culture with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping the company's success in the UK.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in commercial accounting and experience in fast-growing tech businesses.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
With offices in Australia, the US, and the UK, Smokeball is a global leader in legal practice management software, proudly supporting small and mid-sized legal practices to run their best firm and live their best life. We’re passionate about what we do, and our clients know it! Our collaborative culture and strong sense of purpose are the driving forces behind our success.
About the role
We are looking for a Financial Controller to join Smokeball UK. We are a process and technology-focused finance team with a strong continuous improvement mindset, and this is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys variety, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration. As the first finance hire in the UK region, this role will report to the UK Country Manager and play a critical part in establishing and strengthening the local finance function. The successful candidate will be hands on and responsible for general ledger accounting, financial reporting, and supporting business operations, while also helping to build and grow the regional finance team over time.
Key Responsibilities
- Responsible for the financial management and reporting of Smokeball UK including:
- Ownership of the general ledger, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and timely financial reporting
- Managing the subscription billing framework and revenue recognition process in accordance with relevant accounting standards
- End-to-end processing of finance transactions, including accounts payable, billing, accounts receivable, reconciliations, and journals
- Leading the month-end close process, including preparation of management accounts and variance analysis
- Preparing P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow forecasts to support business planning and decision-making
- Partnering with local outsourced providers to ensure payroll, VAT, tax, and statutory compliance obligations are met accurately and on time
- Supporting audit requirements and maintaining strong financial controls and governance processes
- Identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency, scalability, and reporting capability
Finance Business Partnering
- Acting as a trusted finance partner to the UK Country Manager and wider team, including:
- Providing commercial insights and financial analysis to support strategic and operational decision-making
- Supporting budgeting, forecasting, and long‑term strategic planning initiatives
- Using data and performance metrics to identify trends, risks, and business opportunities
- Collaborating cross-functionally with operational teams to improve financial performance and drive business outcomes
- Supporting the continued growth and scaling of the UK business through proactive financial leadership
What you bring
- 5+ years in a commercial accounting role – essential
- Previous experience in a fast‑growing tech business
- An understanding of subscription billing and revenue recognition
- An understanding of the software as a service (SaaS) business model
- Advanced MS Excel skills with experience building or maintaining forecast models
- Experience using cloud‑based accounting and data analysis software
- Self‑motivated, adaptable, and comfortable with change
What’s in it for you?
- A dynamic and inclusive work environment
- Competitive salary and performance‑based incentives
- Wellbeing allowance
- The chance to be a key player in shaping the company’s success in the UK
- Company provided ai licenses to support productivity
- And of course…the SWAG!
*Smokeball is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing an open, welcoming environment for everyone. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. Please note: This role is only open to UK residents. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer sponsorship currently.
Financial Controller in London employer: Smokeball UK
Smokeball UK offers an exceptional work environment for a Financial Controller, characterised by a dynamic and inclusive culture that prioritises collaboration and continuous improvement. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, performance-based incentives, and a wellbeing allowance, while also having the unique opportunity to shape the financial landscape of a fast-growing tech company. With a strong focus on employee growth and a commitment to diversity, Smokeball is dedicated to supporting its team members in achieving both professional and personal success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who work in tech or SaaS. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Smokeball and its culture. Understand their values and how they support small and mid-sized legal practices. This will help you show that you're not just a fit for the role, but for the company too!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Since this role involves a lot of financial analysis and process improvements, be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in the past and what strategies you used to overcome them.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Financial Controller role. Highlight your experience in commercial accounting and any relevant tech business exposure. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for finance and how you can contribute to Smokeball's success. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of subscription billing and SaaS models – it’s key for us!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love candidates who can think on their feet and bring innovative solutions to the table, especially in a fast-paced environment like ours.
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smokeball UK
✨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 managed general ledger accounting, financial reporting, and revenue recognition in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Smokeball values a continuous improvement mindset. Prepare examples of how you've identified inefficiencies in financial processes and implemented solutions. This will show that you're proactive and can contribute to their tech-focused finance team.
✨Understand the SaaS Model
Since Smokeball operates within the software as a service (SaaS) model, make sure you understand subscription billing and revenue recognition. Be ready to discuss how these concepts apply to financial management and decision-making.
✨Be a Team Player
Collaboration is key at Smokeball. Prepare to talk about your experience working cross-functionally with other teams. Highlight how you've partnered with operational teams to improve financial performance and drive business outcomes.
