At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, ensuring accurate reporting and robust financial controls.
- Company: Dynamic Midlands-based company with a hybrid working model.
- Benefits: 25 days annual leave, private health insurance, and regular social events.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to equal opportunities and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced environment and make a real impact on financial decision-making.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with strong financial control experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Financial Controller
Location
- Midlands based – Hybrid (Candidates must hold a full UK driving licence)
- Job Overview
The Financial Controller is responsible for leading the day-to-day finance function and ensuring the integrity, accuracy and timeliness of all financial reporting.
The role has overall responsibility for robust financial controls, monthly and year-end close, management reporting, cash flow oversight, budgeting support, audit input and compliance with relevant accounting, tax and regulatory requirements.
The Financial Controller works closely with senior leadership to provide reliable financial insight, support decision-making and drive continuous improvement across finance processes.
Reporting Line
Reports to the Group Finance Director, with close interaction across the wider business. Acts as Finance Business Partner to the operating company Managing Directors.
Key Responsibilities
- Produce the month-end, quarter-end and year-end close processes to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.
- Prepare and review monthly management accounts, balance sheet reconciliations, cash flow reporting, reforecasting and all variance analysis.
- Provide analysis and backup details for the statutory accounts and support compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain and strengthen internal financial controls, policies and procedures to safeguard assets and ensure reporting integrity.
- Manage cash flow, to align with all working capital requirements. Aim to maximise cash throughout but especially at key points in the calendar (to align with group targets).
- Support the annual budget process, including analysis of performance against budget and reforecast assumptions.
- Opco key finance contact for auditors, tax advisers and other external stakeholders. Provide all audit related data as required.
- Ensure compliance with tax, VAT, payroll and other statutory filing obligations, working with the Group FD and external advisers where appropriate.
- Lead, develop and mentor the finance team in each operating company, promoting accountability, high standards and continuous improvement.
- Partner with operational and commercial stakeholders to provide financial insight, challenge and decision support.
- Identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and reporting efficiency, including automation and standardisation where appropriate.
- Support ad hoc analysis, projects and strategic initiatives as required by senior management.
- Required Experience
The successful candidate will be a technically strong, commercially aware finance professional with excellent attention to detail and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
They will combine strong financial control with a practical, hands‑on approach and the confidence to engage credibly with senior stakeholders.
- Fully/newly qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
- Significant experience in a financial control, finance manager or similar senior finance role (industry experience would be an advantage).
- Strong technical accounting knowledge and experience of statutory reporting, audit and financial controls.
- Proven experience of producing accurate management information, budgets and forecasts.
- Experience of leading, developing and motivating finance team members.
- Strong systems capability, including advanced Excel skills and familiarity with finance systems, reporting tools (AI experience would be an advantage).
- Experience of process improvement, control enhancement and finance transformation would be advantageous.
- Experience in a multi‑entity, group or fast‑growth environment would be beneficial, depending on organisational structure.
- Key Competencies
- High levels of accuracy, integrity and attention to detail.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving capability.
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
- Clear and confident communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Ability to build effective relationships across finance and non‑finance teams.
- A proactive, hands‑on and solutions‑focused approach.
- Strong leadership and team management capability.
- Commercial awareness and the ability to translate financial information into practical insight.
- Success Measures
- Accurate and timely deliverables
- High‑quality management reporting
- Strong financial controls and audit readiness
- Effective cash flow management and forecasting accuracy
- A capable, well‑managed and continuously improving finance function
- Trusted financial support to senior stakeholders and the wider business
- Employee Benefits
- 25 days annual leave, plus usual Bank Holidays
- Birthday day off
- Private Health Insurance*
- Workplace pension scheme
- Death in service scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Hybrid working arrangement
- Regular social events
- *Upon successful completion of a 6‑month probation period
We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
Recruitment decisions are based solely on merit, qualifications and business needs.
We are a Disability Confident employer, committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace where everyone can thrive.
We actively promote equal opportunities and support individuals with disabilities.
If adjustments are required during the recruitment process, please let us know – we are committed to a fair, supportive and inclusive experience from application through to employment.
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Financial Controller employer: Strata
Strata is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer comprehensive training and mentorship opportunities, particularly for those in leadership roles like the Senior Project Manager. Located in the vibrant city of London, our hybrid work model provides flexibility while ensuring that our team remains engaged and connected, making Strata a rewarding place to build a meaningful career in event management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller
✨Tip Number 1: Tap Into Professional Networks
The finance world loves a good connection, so jump into industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn where you can find discussions on financial controlling. Engaging in these communities can expose you to hidden job leads that aren't openly advertised!
✨Tip Number 2: Attend Finance Events and Conferences
Make it a mission to attend finance-related events and conferences, even virtual ones! This is a golden opportunity to network face-to-face with people from companies like Strata. You never know who might be your next boss or a crucial contact!
✨Tip Number 3: Showcase Your Expertise
Consider writing articles or sharing insights related to financial controlling or industry trends. Publish these on platforms like LinkedIn to establish yourself as a knowledgeable player in the field. This not only increases your visibility but also catches the attention of recruiters from Strata.
✨Tip Number 4: Apply Directly on Company Websites
Since you're going for a full-time gig, don't forget to keep an eye on the careers page of companies you're interested in, like Strata. Many companies prefer candidates who apply through their website as it shows genuine interest and makes your application stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game:In financial controlling, detail is everything! Make sure your CV showcases your proficiency with numbers—highlight any relevant experience in budgeting, forecasting, or working with financial software. Quantifying your past achievements will make you stand out, so don’t be shy about flaunting those impressive percentages or cost savings you've implemented.
Tailored Cover Letter is Key:Your cover letter is a chance to shine, especially for a full-time role. Use it to express your genuine interest in Strata and the specific impact you hope to make in financial controlling. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that align with the company’s goals, and don’t forget to show that you're ready for a long-term commitment!
Certifications Matter:List relevant certifications such as ACCA or CIMA on your CV. These qualifications not only showcase your dedication to the field but also your technical competence in financial principles. If you have any ongoing training or courses, make sure to mention those as well to demonstrate your commitment to continual learning in financial controlling.
Don’t Overlook Soft Skills:While numbers are crucial, so are those soft skills! Financial controllers need strong communication and analytical reasoning abilities. We recommend embedding examples of these skills in your CV and cover letter, like how you’ve successfully delivered financial reports to stakeholders or collaborated with teams to improve processes. Let’s show Strata how you can be a team player!
How to prepare for a job interview at Strata
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Make sure you're comfortable with key financial concepts, especially around forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis. Sometimes, interviewers may throw in technical questions or case studies, so practicing these types of scenarios will help you shine!
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
If you've had experience with specific financial software like SAP or Oracle, make it known! Be ready to discuss how you used these tools to improve processes or reporting, as this hands-on knowledge can really set you apart in a full-time role with Strata.
✨Know Your Numbers
In full-time interviews, especially in financial controlling, be prepared for numerical reasoning tests or questions. Brush up on your mental maths and understand how to interpret and analyse financial statements on the spot, as this may come up during the assessment.
✨Connect with Company Goals
Familiarise yourself with Strata's financial objectives and any recent developments. During the interview, try to weave your understanding of their business model and challenges into your answers—this shows your genuine interest and alignment with their goals!