At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial operations for a high-net-worth individual and boutique hospitality group.
- Company: Smyth & Co is a prestigious firm specialising in private and hospitality financial management.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and the chance to work closely with executive leadership.
- Other info: You'll be supported by part-time accounts assistants and report directly to the Group CFO.
- Why this job: This unique role offers autonomy and the opportunity to impact both private and commercial sectors.
- Qualifications: Strong bookkeeping skills and discretion; experience with high-net-worth clients is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Smyth & Co are seeking a highly discreet, detail-oriented, and self-sufficient Accountant to take full responsibility for the financial management of both a Private Office and a boutique Hospitality Group. This unique role reports directly to the Group CFO and is supported by two part-time accounts assistants.
Key Responsibilities:
- Private Office (Individual/Real Estate)
- You will manage all day-to-day financial operations for a high-net-worth individual and their UK property portfolio. This includes:
- Maintaining accurate accounting records across all personal and property-related expenses.
- Managing payments, direct debits, payroll, and service provider contracts.
- Producing detailed monthly spend reports within 10 business days of month-end.
- Reconciling bank accounts, forecasting cash flow, and managing relationships with banks, insurers, and tax advisors.
- Liaising with household staff and the Executive Assistant to ensure smooth financial operations and cost-effective services.
- Hospitality Group (Two Hotels, Restaurants, Short Stay, and Commercial Units)
- You will oversee accurate management accounts and daily reporting across multiple hospitality assets, including:
- Two boutique hotels and restaurants.
- An eight-bedroom short stay property.
- Two small commercial units.
- This part of the role is supported by a part-time accounts assistant and involves maintaining timely, accurate financial reporting and operational insights.
What We’re Looking For:
- Strong bookkeeping and management accounting skills.
- High level of discretion and professionalism.
- Proactive, organised, and able to work independently.
- Experience working with high-net-worth individuals and/or hospitality businesses is a plus.
This is a rare opportunity to combine private and commercial accounting in a single, autonomous role with direct access to executive leadership.
Location: Hybrid
Reporting to: Group CFO
Contact Detail:
Smyth & Co Executive Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Financial Controller
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the finance and hospitality sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with individuals who may have insights or connections related to the Group Financial Controller role.
✨Tip Number 2
Research Smyth & Co thoroughly. Understand their values, recent projects, and the specific challenges they face in managing finances for high-net-worth individuals and hospitality businesses. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with financial management in both private and commercial settings. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed accounts, reconciled bank statements, or improved financial processes in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your discretion and professionalism during any interactions with Smyth & Co. Given the nature of the role, showcasing your ability to handle sensitive information and maintain confidentiality will be crucial in making a positive impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Financial Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in financial management, particularly with high-net-worth individuals and hospitality businesses. Use specific examples to demonstrate your bookkeeping and management accounting skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and explain why you are a great fit. Mention your ability to work independently and your experience managing financial operations, as these are key aspects of the job.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your attention to detail, discretion, and organisational skills in your application. These qualities are crucial for the role, so provide examples of how you've demonstrated them in previous positions.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your professionalism and attention to detail, which are essential for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smyth & Co Executive Search
✨Showcase Your Financial Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with bookkeeping and management accounting in detail. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed financial operations, especially in high-pressure environments like hospitality or for high-net-worth individuals.
✨Demonstrate Discretion and Professionalism
Since this role requires a high level of discretion, be ready to share instances where you've handled sensitive information responsibly. This will show that you understand the importance of confidentiality in financial management.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios. For example, how would you handle discrepancies in financial reports or manage cash flow issues? Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the company. Inquire about the financial systems they use or how they measure success in this position. This shows your genuine interest and proactive mindset.