At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial reporting and audits while driving growth in a dynamic software business.
- Company: Join a fast-growing, PE-backed software company with a vibrant team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, potential remote work options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: This is a new role, offering a chance to shape financial strategies in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting journey in a rapidly expanding company with a focus on innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience from a Top 10 accounting firm and strong knowledge of IFRS and UK GAAP required.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
🚗 Group Financial Controller | Automotive Retail Business
📍 North London – office based initially (4-5 days), with longer‑term hybrid flexibility
💰 £110,000 – £130,000 + Bonus + Cars + Benefits
Stanton House are exclusively recruiting for a large, privately owned automotive retail group to appoint a newly created Group Financial Controller role, reporting directly to the CFO. This is a pivotal hire and a key part of the long‑term finance leadership succession plan. The business operates a multi‑site dealership network across Greater London and the Home Counties. Despite its scale, it maintains a hands‑on, entrepreneurial culture, with a lean leadership structure and fast decision‑making. This is not a business‑as‑usual role. It’s an opportunity to reset how Finance is perceived, improve ways of working, and play a central role in shaping the future of the function.
💼 The role:
You will lead the day‑to‑day finance operation, managing a team of c.28 (6 direct reports), while acting as the key interface between Finance and Operations.
Alongside ownership of core financial delivery, you will be heavily involved in:
• Leading and developing a large, multi‑disciplinary finance team
• Driving improvements to month‑end close, reporting quality and timelines
• Strengthening cash flow forecasting and working capital management
• Rebuilding relationships between Finance and operational teams
• Providing clear, commercially focused insight to senior stakeholders
• Improving legacy processes and shifting mindsets towards growth
• Acting as deputy to the CFO and supporting group‑wide initiatives
This role requires someone comfortable rolling up their sleeves, working close to the detail, and influencing across the wider business.
🎯 What we’re looking for:
• ACA qualified (audit background preferred), ACCA / CIMA also considered
• Proven experience leading sizeable finance teams (10 people +)
• Background in a high‑volume, highly transactional environment
• Strong ownership of management reporting and financial control
• Excellent cash flow and working capital experience
• Comfortable working with complex data across multiple systems
• Exposure to retail or stock‑intensive environments beneficial
• A strong communicator who can challenge, influence and build trust
• Ambition to progress to a CFO role within 4–5 years
🌍 Why this role?
• Newly created role with genuine influence and visibility
• Clear succession path to CFO
• Opportunity to reshape finance culture and ways of working
• High level of engagement with CEO, COO and operational leaders
• Join a business with scale, complexity and long‑term growth ambitions
📩 If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please submit your application or email your CV to
#FinanceLeadership #Hiring #GroupFinancial Controller #Transformation #Careers
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Financial Controller in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the private equity and SaaS sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet people who work in similar roles. This can help you gain insights into the company culture and expectations, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in IFRS and UK GAAP. Being well-versed in these standards will not only boost your confidence during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in your field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in stakeholder management. Think of specific examples where you've successfully navigated complex relationships or resolved conflicts, as this is crucial for the Group Financial Controller role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your analytical skills by preparing to discuss how you've used data to drive financial decisions in previous roles. Be ready to explain your thought process and the impact of your decisions on the business.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Financial Controller in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in audit, financial reporting, and stakeholder management. Emphasise your background from a Top 10 accounting firm and any experience in private equity or SaaS environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your emotional intelligence and leadership skills. Discuss how your proactive approach and attention to detail will contribute to the company's growth and success.
Highlight Technical Expertise:In your application, clearly outline your knowledge of IFRS and UK GAAP. Provide examples of how you've applied these standards in previous roles, particularly in preparing financial statements and compliance reporting.
Showcase Analytical Skills:Demonstrate your analytical abilities by discussing specific instances where you've successfully analysed complex financial information. Highlight your experience in improving financial processes and controls.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stanton House
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of IFRS and UK GAAP in detail. Highlight specific examples from your previous roles where you successfully navigated complex accounting issues or compliance requirements.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare to share experiences where you've effectively managed multiple stakeholders. Discuss how you prioritised tasks and maintained communication in a fast-paced environment, as this is crucial for the Group Financial Controller role.
✨Exhibit Proactive Problem-Solving
Think of instances where you took initiative to improve processes or resolve issues. This role requires a hands-on approach, so be ready to explain how you’ve contributed to efficiency and quality in financial operations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your analytical skills and ability to work under pressure. Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific financial challenges or tight deadlines, showcasing your resilience and attention to detail.
