Financial Controller in London

Financial Controller in London

London Full-Time 55000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Timothy Wiseman

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial control activities and drive process improvements across the business.
  • Company: Established independent merchant with a people-first culture and strong team commitment.
  • Benefits: Flexible hours, pension scheme, and 20 days holiday plus bank holidays.
  • Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on financial strategies and support long-term company goals.
  • Qualifications: ACA/ACCA or CIMA qualified with 5+ years of relevant experience.

The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.

Reports to: Managing Director

About the Company

Our client is an established independent merchant supplying timber, machined products, joinery and other building supplies to merchants, building companies and DIY customers. With a turnover of around £12.5m, the business trades through multiple branches across London and employs 70-80 members of staff. This is a close-knit, people-first business rather than a faceless corporate environment - a place where people stay and where commitment is recognised and rewarded.

The Role

They are seeking a talented Financial Controller to take the day-to-day lead of all financial control activities across the business. As a Financial Controller, you will be responsible for identifying and driving process improvements across the finance function, developing financial strategies, optimising financial performance, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. You will ensure strong and efficient financial controls and processes are in place to support the company's long-term goals. Working closely with senior management, you will provide analysis and deliver insights that link financial information to business strategy. This is a genuine opportunity to drive continuous improvement within the finance function - identifying areas for improvement and implementing change. Knowledge of the Kerridge Commercial System would be an advantage, though full training on Kerridge would be provided.

Key Responsibilities

  • Ensure the timely and accurate preparation of monthly and quarterly reporting, with analysis
  • Ensure compliance with accounting standards, leading the annual statutory accounts process and management of the annual audit
  • Oversee accounting, ensuring the business is compliant with all tax and other financial legislation
  • Ensure all HMRC submissions are delivered accurately and on time, including the preparation, review and submission of tax and VAT returns
  • Oversee all balance sheet control accounts and reconciliations
  • Maintain and implement strong financial systems and controls across the business
  • Manage the company's cash flow - forecasting and monitoring requirements to ensure sufficient liquidity and timely payment of debts
  • Support the development of a high-performing team

Experience and Skills

  • ACA / ACCA or CIMA qualified, or part-qualified, with 5+ years' relevant experience
  • Good systems skills, especially with reporting tools
  • Experience of financial controls and processes
  • Experience of financial forecasting and planning using spreadsheets (Excel)
  • Experience of driving change within finance functions
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail with an analytical mindset

Benefits

Our client is dedicated to providing a diverse and inclusive working environment where every team member can thrive, with a benefits package designed to support overall well-being and professional growth:

  • Pension scheme
  • Flexible working hours
  • 20 days' holiday plus bank holidays

Financial Controller in London employer: Timothy Wiseman

Our client is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture where commitment is recognised and rewarded. With a focus on employee growth, they provide opportunities for professional development alongside a competitive benefits package, including flexible working hours and a pension scheme. Located in London, this close-knit business values its people, making it a great place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment as a Financial Controller.

Timothy Wiseman

Contact Details:

Timothy Wiseman Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance industry and let them know you're on the lookout for a Financial Controller role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity that’s not even advertised yet.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company thoroughly. Understand their values, culture, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their close-knit team.

Tip Number 3

Practice your financial analysis skills! Be ready to discuss how you've driven process improvements in previous roles. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact and how you can bring that same energy to their finance function.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller in London

Financial Control
Process Improvement
Financial Strategy Development
Regulatory Compliance
Financial Performance Optimisation
Kerridge Commercial System
Monthly and Quarterly Reporting

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Financial Controller role. Highlight your experience with financial controls, compliance, and any relevant qualifications like ACA, ACCA, or CIMA. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our close-knit, people-first environment. Share specific examples of how you've driven process improvements in finance functions before.

Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of analysis and insights, make sure to showcase your analytical mindset in your application. Mention any tools or systems you’ve used, especially if you have experience with reporting tools or financial forecasting.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!

How to prepare for a job interview at Timothy Wiseman

Know Your Numbers

As a Financial Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you understand the business's financial health and can contribute to its success.

Showcase Process Improvement Experience

The role involves driving process improvements, so come prepared with specific examples of how you've identified inefficiencies and implemented changes in previous positions. Highlighting your proactive approach will resonate well with the interviewers.

Familiarise Yourself with Kerridge

While full training will be provided, having a basic understanding of the Kerridge Commercial System can set you apart. Do a bit of research on it and be ready to discuss how you’ve adapted to new systems in the past.

Communicate Clearly and Confidently

Excellent communication skills are crucial for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex financial concepts. This will help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate your ability to convey important information effectively.