This job is with St. James's Place, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community. Please do not contact the recruiter directly.
About the Role
We're looking for a Controls Testing Manager to play a key role in strengthening and maintaining our internal controls framework in CFO. Working closely with the Head of Financial Controls and wider Finance teams, you'll lead the day-to-day delivery of controls testing, ensuring robust governance and providing confidence to senior stakeholders and Board Committees. No previous controls testing experience is required to apply, but you must be willing to learn and have an understanding of how controls work to manage risk in a Finance function.
In this role, you'll not only assess and test key controls, but also partner with control owners to identify opportunities for improvement, enhance efficiency, and ensure controls evolve alongside business and process changes. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys combining technical expertise with stakeholder engagement to drive real impact.
What You'll Be Doing (when fully competent in the role)
- Leading and managing the day-to-day delivery of controls testing, including reviewing work completed by testers and delivering complex testing yourself
- Developing the annual controls testing plan and tracking/reporting progress to key stakeholders
- Communicating testing outcomes clearly, providing actionable recommendations to strengthen control weaknesses
- Partnering with control owners and project teams to maintain and enhance the controls framework as processes evolve
- Identifying and implementing efficiencies in the controls testing approach to reduce effort and improve effectiveness
- Providing coaching and support to controls testers, ensuring consistent quality and delivery
- Supporting the documentation and attestation of controls effectiveness in collaboration with the Financial Controls Lead
- Contributing to the ongoing development and maintenance of the internal controls framework
Who We're Looking For
We're seeking a self-motivated and proactive individual who combines strong controls knowledge with the ability to influence and partner with stakeholders. You'll be confident working independently, comfortable engaging with senior leaders, and able to translate complex control requirements into practical, real-world solutions. A collaborative mindset and a passion for driving continuous improvement will be key to success in this role.
Essential Criteria
- Qualified accountant (ACCA or ACA) with strong external financial reporting knowledge
- Proven ability to engage, influence, and provide practical guidance to stakeholders across Finance and wider business teams
Desirable Criteria
- Experience within financial services
- Awareness of automation tools or techniques to enhance controls and improve testing efficiency
- Experience in testing financial reporting controls
- Strong understanding of controls frameworks, governance, and standard testing methodologies
Controls Testing Manager employer: St. James's Place
St. James’s Place is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Located in Cirencester, this hybrid role as a Data Privacy Manager not only provides competitive benefits such as parental leave and health insurance but also fosters an environment where employees can thrive through collaboration and engagement with diverse stakeholders in the regulated financial services sector.
