Risk and Internal Controls Manager - 12 Month Fixed Term Contract in Leicester

About the Role

*12 MONTHS FTC*

Topps Tiles operates a large support office with Finance, Marketing, Buying, Central Operations, HR, Property, Customer Service and IT all under one roof. We are a market‑leading retail business that recently achieved a 20% market share and is now targeting £365 million of sales with its Mission 365 goal.

Risk and Internal Controls Manager

Reporting into the Financial Controller, the Risk and Internal Controls Manager will develop compliance with internal and external requirements across risk, financial, operational, reporting and compliance controls. The role strengthens the internal control framework and enhances corporate reporting transparency.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with the assessment and implementation of internal controls relating to Section 4 of the 2024 UK Corporate Governance Code, focusing on provision 29 regarding the declaration of effectiveness of material controls.
• Monitor regulatory developments around risk and controls, proactively advising management on potential impacts and necessary adjustments.
• Network with peers at other businesses to understand their governance approaches and apply relevant learnings to Topps Group.
• Collaborate with Legal, Risk, Operations, IT and other departments to implement process and system changes that meet new governance standards.
• Work with stakeholders to identify material risks to the Group.
• Lead the definition of material controls in line with the Code’s guidance and Group conditions.
• Propose strengthening of the internal control framework, covering financial, operational and compliance controls to satisfy enhanced monitoring and disclosure requirements.
• Develop, refine and document policies and procedures to ensure adherence to the revised Code.
• Support the Board in declaring the effectiveness of material controls at the balance‑sheet date.
• Identify and remediate ineffective material controls, tracking resolution of prior issues.
• Contribute to Annual Report preparation, ensuring transparent disclosures on corporate governance, internal controls and risk management.
• Ensure governance reporting focuses on Board decisions, outcomes and alignment with company strategy and objectives.
• Provide clear, high‑quality explanations where departures from the Code occur.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required

• Part‑qualified, studying for ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent accounting qualification.
• Proven experience in a senior accounting role, preferably within a UK‑listed company.
• Technical knowledge of IFRS, Companies Act requirements and the 2024 UK Corporate Governance Code.
• Experience with control frameworks and compliance, ideally including the UK Corporate Governance Code or SOX.
• Strong understanding of internal control systems and risk management principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with keen eye for detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to explain complex governance concepts to senior management and the Board.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build effective cross‑functional relationships.
• Highly organised, self‑motivated and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Benefits

In a culture that rewards hard work and results, you are eligible for a company bonus of up to 25% of base salary, staff discount, Share Save scheme, pension, life assurance, flexible working, free on‑site parking, product and service discounts, and a holiday allowance that increases with length of service.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Topps Group welcomes applicants of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, ages, religions and socio‑economic backgrounds. Adjustments can be arranged during the recruitment process.