At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations for a dynamic UK real estate portfolio and drive strategic financial decisions.
- Company: A leading US-based real estate investment firm with a strong UK presence.
- Benefits: Flexible working, direct access to decision-makers, and international exposure.
- Why this job: Be a finance leader in a tight-knit team and influence real estate strategies.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in finance, ideally in property, with strong knowledge of UK commercial real estate.
- Other info: Autonomy to build systems and engage with key stakeholders in a high-performing environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Build. Control. Own It.
Financial Controller (Real Estate – UK Portfolio) OUR CLIENT is a privately held real estate investment firm with international headquarters, with over 3 decades track record and ~1 million sq. ft. under management across the UK and US. They are known for smart acquisitions, sharp asset management, and value-driven enhancements in office real estate. As a powerhouse in transatlantic real estate, they are now seeking a seasoned Financial Controller to take full charge of financial operations across their UK portfolio. You will be a ‘hands-on’ expert with extensive experience at asset level across commercial / office real estate who thrives in the detail and is comfortable being the go-to finance lead in a lean, high-performing team
The role of Financial Controller will include the following key areas:
- End-to-end property-level accounting: from rent rolls to tenant ledgers and arrears.
- Service charge mastery: budgets, reconciliations, apportionments—done right.
- Tax and compliance: UK VAT, capital allowances, withholding and corp tax—with external advisor oversight.
- Hands-on financial reporting: prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual accounts under UK GAAP/IFRS.
- Audit & statutory filing leadership: drive year-end processes across UK SPVs.
- CAPEX & development accounting: track refurb spends, recover charges, and capitalise correctly.
- Controls & systems: maintain high-integrity reporting in a lean family office environment.
- Stakeholder engagement: work closely with asset managers, property managers, and surveyors.
THE PERSON – You will be:
- Ideally qualified (ACCA / CIMA or ACA / equivalent) with over 10 years of experience, ideally in a hands-on finance role within property / real estate and must have office asset exposure.
- Strong working knowledge of UK commercial real estate accounting, tax (especially VAT), and service charge mechanisms.
- Self-starter attitude — someone who doesn’t need a team to do high-quality work.
- Advanced Excel skills; experience with Yardi, MRI, or similar systems advantageous.
- Detail-obsessed but commercially minded — equally comfortable in the weeds and in the boardroom.
Benefits
- Flexible working
- Direct access to decision-makers — no red tape.
- International exposure in a tight-knit, entrepreneurial team.
- The autonomy to build your own systems, influence strategy, and be a true finance leader — not just a processor.
Why This Role?
- Autonomy & ownership – build processes, shape reporting, and influence decisions
- Make a difference
This is more than a controller role. It’s your chance to be the financial brain behind a high-value real estate portfolio.
Please note that due to volume we cannot get back to everyone, however every application is looked at and considered and will be held on Trident International’s database for review. If you have not heard back from us within 5 working days you should assume your initial application has been unsuccessful, however if suitable roles arise in the future, we will make every effort to contact you. By applying for this job, you accept the Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found on our website.
To learn more about our company and vacancies we are currently working on, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn
Financial Controller (Real Estate – UK Portfolio) employer: Trident
Contact Detail:
Trident Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller (Real Estate – UK Portfolio)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the real estate sector and let them know you're on the hunt 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
Get your LinkedIn game on point! Make sure your profile is up-to-date and showcases your experience in commercial real estate accounting. Engage with relevant content and connect with industry leaders to increase your visibility.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK VAT, service charge mechanisms, and financial reporting standards. Be ready to discuss how you’ve tackled challenges in previous roles and how you can bring value to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller (Real Estate – UK Portfolio)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Financial Controller role. Highlight your experience in property-level accounting and any relevant qualifications like ACCA or CIMA. We want to see how your skills match 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 team. Mention your hands-on experience in commercial real estate and how you can contribute to our high-performing environment.
Showcase Your Detail-Obsessed Nature: In your application, don’t shy away from showcasing your attention to detail. Whether it's through examples of your financial reporting or tax compliance work, we want to see that you thrive in the nitty-gritty of finance.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you can check out more about our company while you’re there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trident
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Controller, you’ll need to be on top of your game with numbers. Brush up on key financial metrics related to real estate, such as rent rolls and service charge calculations. Be prepared to discuss how you've handled these in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
This role requires a hands-on approach, so make sure to highlight your practical experience in property-level accounting. Share specific examples of how you've managed financial operations in a lean team, and don’t shy away from discussing challenges you’ve overcome.
✨Understand the Compliance Landscape
Familiarise yourself with UK VAT, capital allowances, and corporate tax regulations. Be ready to explain how you’ve ensured compliance in previous positions, and demonstrate your ability to work with external advisors effectively.
✨Engage Stakeholders Effectively
Since stakeholder engagement is crucial, think about how you’ve collaborated with asset managers and property managers in the past. Prepare to discuss your communication style and how you build relationships to drive financial success.