Finance Controls & Assurance Lead

Enra Specialist Finance; Watford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing financial services firm in Watford is seeking a Finance Controls & Assurance Lead to enhance its control and assurance framework. This role focuses on ensuring compliance and accuracy in financial reporting while identifying improvements in processes. Candidates should be qualified accountants with audit experience, possessing strong analytical skills and proficiency in financial systems. The position offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities for career development.

Benefits

Private medical healthcare

Paid volunteer days

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant with exposure in practice.
• Experience in internal or external audit within financial services.
• Knowledge of UK GAAP and/or IFRS.

Responsibilities

• Test internal controls over financial reporting.
• Review reconciliations and journal entries.
• Prepare Finance KRI/KPI reporting for committees.

Skills

Accounting principles knowledge

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Documentation of processes

Communication and influencing skills

Report writing proficiency

Proficiency in Excel and financial systems

Education

Qualified accountant (ACA ACCA or equivalent)

Background in internal or external audit

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

The Role

The Finance team of 20 operates across Short Term Broking FP&A and Group functions working closely with Underwriting and Servicing to ensure robust financial management governance and operational excellence.

We are now seeking a Finance Controls & Assurance Lead to strengthen the Finance functions control and assurance framework ensuring accuracy compliance and efficiency.

Reporting to the FD this role will provide independent assurance over financial reporting systems and controls while driving continuous improvement and best practice.

Ideal for an exinternal auditor or assurance professional (Big 4 or mid-tier) with financial services experience seeking a move into a commercially focused industry role.

Key Accountabilities

Assurance & Controls

• Test and evaluate internal controls over financial reporting and key processes
• Conduct reviews to ensure compliance with policies standards and regulatory requirements.
• Identify control gaps and recommend risk-based improvements.
• Report findings and recommendations to the FD and senior stakeholders.

Reporting & Process Quality

• Oversee accuracy and completeness of financial bank and compliance reporting.
• Review reconciliations and journal entries for quality and consistency.
• Drive improvements in financial close and reporting processes.

  Systems & Process Optimisation

  • Assess system efficiency and identify automation opportunities.
  • Enhance system-embedded controls with finance and tech teams.
  • Support documentation of best‑practice policies and procedures.

  Governance & Continuous Improvement

  • Prepare Finance KRI / KPI reporting for Audit & Risk Committee.
  • Advise FD on control assurance and compliance matters.
  • Foster a culture of quality and accountability.
  • Support audit readiness and maintain documentation.

  Skills & Competencies

  • Sound knowledge of accounting principles internal controls and financial reporting.
  • Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to document processes and identify improvements.
  • Confident communicator able to influence and challenge effectively.
  • Skilled in report writing and presenting clear recommendations.
  • Proficient in Excel and financial systems (ERP experience a plus).

  Knowledge & Qualifications

  • Qualified accountant (ACA ACCA or equivalent) ideally trained in practice.
  • Background in internal or external audit with exposure to financial services or lending sectors desirable.
  • Sound knowledge of UK GAAP and / or IFRS.
  • Understanding of regulatory reporting requirements within the UK financial services sector desirable.

  Personal Attributes

  • High integrity and professional scepticism.
  • Proactive curious and comfortable challenging the status quo.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
  • Strong sense of ownership and accountability for quality outcomes.
  • Collaborative team player who builds trust and credibility across functions.
  • Committed to continuous learning and improvement.

  Why Join Us

  At West One were growing quickly and looking for talented people to join our journey. Youll receive the training tools and support you need to succeed with clear career development opportunities.

  Alongside this we offer a competitive benefits package including private medical healthcare and paid volunteer days.

  If youre ready to take the next step in your career and make an impact in specialised property finance apply today and grow with us!

  Employment Type: Full Time

  Vacancy: 1