Controller in London

Controller in London

London Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
White Ash Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead financial operations and ensure compliance while providing strategic insights.
  • Company: Join a dynamic company in the cannabis industry with a focus on growth and innovation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a diverse workplace culture.
  • Other info: Opportunity to mentor a team and drive financial excellence.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while shaping financial strategies.
  • Qualifications: 8-10 years in finance, leadership experience, and knowledge of GAAP/IFRS required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

SUMMARY

The Controller will oversee all financial and accounting operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, accurate reporting, and efficient management of the company’s financial resources.

The Controller will collaborate with stakeholders across departments to align financial strategies with organizational goals, improve processes, and provide actionable insights.

This role requires a hands-on finance leader with strong cost accounting experience in an inventory-driven and regulated environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports.
  • Ensure compliance with GAAP, ASPE (or IFRS) and other regulatory standards.
  • Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes.
  • Develop and monitor key financial metrics and provide regular performance reports to senior management.
  • Oversee cost accounting processes, including inventory valuation, standard costing, yield tracking, and cost of goods sold (COGS) analysis across cultivation, processing, and finished goods.
  • Manage financial requirements specific to the cannabis industry, including excise duties, inventory controls, and regulatory reporting.
  • Lead the annual budgeting process and provide periodic updates on financial forecasts.
  • Conduct variance analyses and recommend corrective actions to meet financial goals.
  • Provide strategic financial insights to guide business decisions and support long-term planning.
  • Design, implement, and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard company assets.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, provincial, and local tax regulations.
  • Oversee audits (internal and external) and address any findings or recommendations.
  • Manage, mentor, and develop the accounting and finance team, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
  • Set clear objectives, provide regular feedback, and promote professional growth within the team.
  • Evaluate, optimize, and implement financial systems and tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
  • Lead initiatives to streamline accounting processes, reduce costs, and improve workflows.
  • Oversee financial systems, including ERP and Quick Books, ensuring effective day-to-day use and alignment with organizational needs.
  • Partner with the executive team to align financial strategies with business objectives.
  • Provide financial leadership during M&A activities, capital projects, or other strategic initiatives.
  • Serve as a liaison with external stakeholders, including auditors, banks, and regulatory bodies.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; MBA or Master’s degree is a plus.
  • CPA designation is preferred but not required.
  • Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in accounting or finance, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
  • Experience in Cannabis industry or a similar fast-paced, growth-oriented environment is preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of financial reporting standards (GAAP/IFRS) and regulatory requirements.
  • Proven track record in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning.
  • Strong background in cost accounting, including inventory, COGS, and margin analysis.
  • Experience working with Quick Books (or similar SME accounting systems) in a hands-on capacity.
  • Experience in cannabis, manufacturing, CPG, or other inventory-driven environments is preferred.

White Ash Group and the companies it represents are Equal Employment Opportunity employers that values the strength of diversity within the workplace.

All qualified applicants, regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, nationality, age, disability or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Controller in London employer: White Ash Group

At White Ash Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through mentorship opportunities and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, making it an ideal place for finance professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the cannabis industry. Located in a vibrant area, we provide our team with the resources and support needed to excel in their roles while enjoying a balanced work-life experience.

White Ash Group

Contact Details:

White Ash Group Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Controller in London

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 White Ash Group. 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 Controller in London

Financial Reporting
GAAP
ASPE
IFRS
Cost Accounting
Inventory Valuation
Standard Costing

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 White Ash Group.

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 White Ash Group'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 White Ash Group

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 White Ash Group.

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 White Ash Group 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 White Ash Group 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.