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

There's plenty about Topps Tiles that might surprise you. Like the scale of our Support Office in Leicester. We have Finance, Marketing, Buying, Central Operations, HR, Property, Customer Service and IT all under one roof. Tight-knit teams of talented people working together and working hard to get things done and drive results. But then, would you expect anything less from an ambitious, dynamic, market-leading, multi-million-pound retail business? After delivering our 20% market share goal of "one in five" in 2023, we have launched our new goal - Mission 365 - targeting £365 million of sales.

Topps Tiles are currently recruiting for a Risk and Internal Controls Manager! Reporting into the Financial Controller, this is a critical role which will develop our compliance with internal and external requirements in this area, covering risk as well as financial, operational, reporting and compliance controls. You will play a pivotal role in strengthening our internal control framework and enhancing the transparency of our corporate reporting in this area.

The Role

• Code Implementation and Compliance: Assist with the assessment and implementation of internal controls relating to Section 4 of the 2024 UK Corporate Governance Code, in particular Provision 29 regarding declaration of effectiveness of material controls. Monitor regulatory developments around risk and controls and proactively advise management on potential impacts and necessary adjustments. Network with individuals at other appropriate businesses to understand their approaches and incorporate learnings into the Topps Group approach. Collaborate with various departments (e.g., Legal, Risk, Operations, IT) to identify and implement necessary changes to processes and systems to meet new governance standards.
• Internal Control Framework Enhancement: Work with key stakeholders to assist with the identification of risks that are material to the Group. Lead the definition of "material controls" in accordance with the Code's guidance and the Group's specific circumstances. Propose how to strengthen the company's internal control framework, encompassing financial, operational, and compliance controls, to align with the enhanced requirements for monitoring and disclosure. Continually assess this framework moving forwards to ensure that it remains appropriate for the Group. Develop, refine and document policies and procedures to help ensure adherence to the revised Code. Support the Board in making the required declaration on the effectiveness of material controls at the balance sheet date. Identify any material controls that have not operated effectively, propose remedial actions, and track the resolution of previously reported issues.
• Corporate Governance Reporting: Contribute to the preparation of the Annual Report, ensuring accurate and transparent disclosures related to corporate governance practices, particularly in relation to the effectiveness of internal controls and risk management. Ensure governance reporting on risk and internal controls focuses on Board decisions, their outcomes, and how they align with the company's strategy and objectives. Where departures from the Code's provisions occur, ensure clear, high-quality explanations are provided.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required:

• Part qualified, studying for ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent professional accounting qualification.
• Proven experience in a senior accounting role, preferably within a UK-listed company.
• Technical Knowledge of IFRS and relevant Companies Act requirements, including a solid understanding of the specific changes introduced by the 2024 UK Corporate Governance Code.
• Demonstrable experience with control frameworks and compliance, ideally with direct exposure to implementing the UK Corporate Governance Code or experience with similar legislation such as SOX Compliance.
• Strong understanding of internal control systems and risk management principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen eye for detail and the capacity to interpret complex regulatory guidance.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex governance concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including senior management and the Board.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and collaborate across functions.
• Highly organised, self-motivated, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

In a culture where hard work is recognised and great results are rewarded, you can look forward to a company bonus that will give you a share of our success - up to 25% of your base salary. Then there's a generous staff discount, a Share Save scheme, pension and life assurance, a holiday allowance that increases with length of service and a wide range of other benefits. Plus flexible working, free on-site parking, generous discounts on products and services and more. A lot more. We're committed to promoting talent from within too, which means you'll be well-supported to build a rewarding career with an individual development plan and lots of training on offer.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:

At Topps Group we believe that diversity isn't just a box to tick. We are committed to creating an authentic 'One Topps' culture, where our colleagues feel included and supported regardless of who they are or where they are from. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, ages, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know - we're here to support you. Join us in shaping a culture where inclusion is more than a policy - it's a daily practice.