At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and ensure accuracy in a fast-paced global environment.
- Company: Dynamic private equity-backed distributor in aerospace and defence sectors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, generous leave, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with potential for career advancement.
- Why this job: Join a forward-thinking company with global reach and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified ACA/ACCA/CIMA with 5+ years of relevant experience.
Our client, a private equity‑backed global distributor operating across aerospace, defence, and specialty chemicals, is recruiting for a Financial Controller for its UK Accounting Division, based at offices in Hertfordshire within close proximity to the M1 / M25.
This is a global role reporting into senior management at the company head office in the US.
Proven experience reporting into Head Office is required to be considered for the role.
Offer
- A key leadership role within a highly regarded forward thinking organisation with great potential for global grow
- Salary: £70K - £90K per annum, depending on experience plus annual bonus up to 20%
- Other benefits including generous annual leave
- The
Company: With group revenues approaching $400M and a footprint spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The organisation specialises in technical distribution, combining specialist products, regulatory expertise, and responsive logistics to support customers in highly regulated, mission‑critical sectors.
The UK‑based MRO division, headquartered in Hertfordshire, generates approximately $150M in annual revenue and is one of the group’s most strategically important platforms, serving a global customer base in the commercial aviation market.
The division operates its own ERP environment while maintaining close integration with group‑level reporting, treasury, and compliance.
- Main Purpose of the
- Financial
Controller: Reporting in to Senior Management, the Financial Controller is a hands‑on role within the UK division, reporting to the Global Controller.
You will oversee day‑to‑day accounting operations, monthly close, treasury activities, and financial controls.
The role includes managing a small, globally distributed accounting team, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial records, and liaising with group finance, auditors, and tax advisers.
It suits someone detail‑oriented, organised, and comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment where deadlines and precision are essential.
Key Responsibilities of the
Financial
Controller
- Financial Control & Reporting
- Compliance
- Budgeting & Commercial
- Working Capital & Treasury
- Team Leadership & Development Qualifications & Experience Required to be Considered:
- Fully qualified ACA / ACCA / CIMA.
- Minimum 5 years post‑qualification or relevant accounting experience, including at least 2 years in working for a stockist / inventory led / materials management organisation
- Strong experience managing month‑end close and maintaining accurate financial records.
- Practice background welcome; industry experience preferred.
- Experience in distribution, manufacturing, logistics, or similar sectors advantageous.
- Demonstrable experience managing and developing accounting staff. Technical Skills
- Strong command of UK GAAP and IFRS.
- Advanced Excel skills; experience with Adaptive beneficial.
- Solid understanding of foreign exchange accounting.
- Hands‑on ERP experience; familiarity with consolidation and reporting tools.
- Working knowledge of UK tax compliance (corporation tax, VAT, PAYE/NIC). Leadership & Personal Attributes
- A natural leader who sets high standards and takes ownership.
- Clear communicator able to present financial information confidently.
- Calm under pressure, able to manage multiple deadlines without compromising quality.
- Collaborative, proactive, and detail‑oriented with strong follow ‑through. For full details, contact Willis Global - Experts in Recruiting
Financial Controller in St Albans employer: Willis Global
Join a leading provider of mechanical design and installation services in Bristol, where you will thrive in a supportive and collaborative work environment. With competitive salaries, health insurance, and opportunities for professional development, this role as a Senior Mechanical Project Manager offers exposure to diverse projects while promoting a strong health and safety culture. Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with 25 days holiday and a 1pm finish every other Friday, making it an excellent place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller in St Albans
✨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 Willis Global. 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 Financial Controller in St Albans
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 Willis Global.
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 Willis Global'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 Willis Global
✨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 Willis Global.
✨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 Willis Global 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 Willis Global 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.
