Financial Controller

SSP Group; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services provider in Birmingham is seeking a Financial Controller to oversee financial reporting and strategic business partnering. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in financial accounting, exceptional leadership abilities, and advanced Excel skills. Join a collaborative team that values initiative and professional growth from day one.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a complex, client-facing or retail environment.
• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical capabilities.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with a focus on team development.

Responsibilities

• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of financial performance.
• Partner with senior management to track strategic initiatives.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the Finance Director.

Skills

Financial accounting

Business planning

Leadership skills

Analytical capabilities

Advanced Excel skills

Education

ACA or CIMA qualification

Tools

SAP S/4HANA

Job description

About the Role

The Financial controller has a broad and varied remit, covering year end accounting, management, FPA and business partnering across the Rail Gourmet (RG) business. The position allows progression within a wider finance team for further career development opportunities available once proven successful in this role. The position reports to the Finance Director, Ireland, Netherlands & Rail Gourmet. The post-holder will be required to build strong relationships with the RG leadership team, group finance and external auditors. The post-holder will work closely with our shared services in our Birmingham office who are responsible for the accuracy and integrity of the UK's financial accounting processes and controls.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Reporting: Ensure timely and accurate reporting of financial performance, continuously enhancing the quality and insight of reporting outputs. Including statutory and group financial reporting.
• Business Performance & Improvement: Partner with senior management to identify, implement, and track strategic initiatives and value creation opportunities.
• Financial Analysis: Oversee financial analysis to support operational performance reviews and decision‑making.
• Contract & Proposal Support: Lead financial input into new business proposals and revisions to existing contracts, ensuring robust return and risk assessments.
• Strategic Business Partnering: Act as a trusted advisor to the Finance Director and wider leadership team, contributing to the development and execution of business strategy.
• Team Leadership Development: Provide strong leadership to direct reports and support the development of financial talent across the team.

What we’re looking for

Essential

• Proven experience in a complex, client‑facing or retail environment.
• Strong technical background in financial accounting and business planning.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with a focus on team development and succession planning.
• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical capabilities.

Desirable

• ACA or CIMA qualified, with a minimum of 5 years post‑qualification experience.
• Experience in the rail or contract services industry.
• Familiarity with SAP S/4HANA.
• Experience working with BPO/shared service partners.

Why Join Us

You’ll be part of a collaborative team that values initiative, problem‑solving, and professional growth. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to work across diverse projects and make a visible impact from day one.

At SSP

We value diversity and are committed to building a team that reflects a variety of skills, talents, and backgrounds.