At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial integrity and drive growth in a multi-site hospitality business.
- Company: Dynamic hospitality company operating across the UK and US.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a vibrant work culture.
- Other info: Join a passionate team focused on continuous improvement and accountability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategy and operations in a growing business.
- Qualifications: ACA or ACCA qualified with experience in multi-site environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are looking for a qualified Financial Controller (ACA or ACCA) to own the integrity of our numbers and help scale a growing, multi-site hospitality business operating across the UK and US. This is a hands-on role. You will run the close, lead audit delivery, manage cash flow forecasting and capex planning, and ensure our finance systems and controls are robust as we grow.
Key responsibilities
- Lead, Manage & Accountability: Line manage and develop the Accounts Manager and Business Intelligence Manager.
- Run effective weekly 1:1s and quarterly EOS conversations.
- Ensure clear ownership of Rocks, scorecards and finance priorities.
- Create a culture of accountability, follow-through and continuous improvement.
- Act as day-to-day finance lead across UK and US operations.
- Own the monthly close across all UK and US entities.
- Deliver accurate and timely management accounts and Board reporting.
- Maintain full balance sheet integrity, including intercompany positions and eliminations.
- Lead the UK audit process and coordinate external reporting requirements in the US.
- Own relationships with external accountants and auditors in both jurisdictions.
- Own budgets, forecasts and quarterly re-forecasts across UK, US and franchise operations.
- Maintain a rolling cash flow forecast and working capital visibility.
- Lead CapEx planning, new site appraisals and post-investment ROI reviews.
- Deliver weekly trading insight across Houses, including labour and margin performance.
- Support strategic decision-making with clear, forward-looking analysis.
- Own NetSuite as the core finance system across all entities.
- Ensure robust financial controls across revenue, purchasing, payroll and approvals.
- Maintain disciplined month-end processes and documentation.
- Improve and document core finance processes to support scale.
- Oversee payroll processes, including review of outsourced payroll outputs and accurate journal postings.
- Oversee UK VAT and US sales tax compliance.
- Manage external advisors to deliver corporation tax processes in the UK and US.
- Ensure payroll tax and statutory filings are accurate and on time.
- Oversee Companies House filings and corporate compliance.
Key to this role
- Is ACA or ACCA qualified (audit-trained preferred).
- Has experience using NetSuite (or similar ERP).
- Has experience in a multi-site hospitality or retail environment.
- Can implement process improvement and strengthen controls.
- Can turn numbers into insight and action.
- Lives and breathes our core values of passion, drive, diligence and empathy.
Financial Controller employer: The Watch House & Co
Join a dynamic and growing multi-site hospitality business that values integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement. As a Financial Controller, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that encourages professional development and offers opportunities to lead and innovate across our UK and US operations. With a focus on employee growth and a commitment to robust financial practices, this role provides a meaningful chance to make a significant impact in a vibrant industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like The Watch House & Co. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to The Watch House & Co.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on The Watch House & Co's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Watch House & Co
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with The Watch House & Co.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at The Watch House & Co will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former The Watch House & Co employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
