Financial Controller

Universal Business Team; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A thriving design and fit-out business in Leeds is searching for a Financial Controller to lead the finance function. You will manage financial reporting, forecasting, and cash flow while working closely with senior leadership. This role requires strong analytical skills and experience in the construction sector. The company offers a salary between £55,000 and £65,000, hybrid working options, and the chance to shape the finance function and build a team.

Benefits

Profit share bonus scheme

Hybrid working options

Autonomy and influence as the business scales

Qualifications

• ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualified, or actively working towards qualification.
• Proven experience in a construction, fit-out, or project-led business.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in Xero or similar cloud-based financial systems.

Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of financial systems, controls, and reporting.
• Prepare accurate management accounts, board packs, and KPI reports.
• Lead forecasting, budgeting, and cashflow management.
• Manage statutory accounts and liaise with external accountants.
• Recruit and develop a small finance team as the business expands.

Skills

Proven experience in a construction, fit-out, or project-led business

Strong analytical and reporting skills

Commercial acumen and ability to influence at senior level

Proficiency in Xero or similar cloud-based financial systems

Education

ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualified, or actively working towards qualification

Job description

Financial Controller – Leeds

Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 (depending on experience)
Location: Kirkstall, Leeds (hybrid options available)
Sector: Commercial Interiors / Construction Fit-Out
Benefits: Profit Share Bonus Scheme, opportunity to build and lead the finance function

About the Business

Our client is an established and growing design and fit-out business with a turnover of around £4m. They specialise in creating inspiring, functional spaces that enhance wellbeing and connection — from biophilic design to full commercial fit-out projects.

As the company continues its strong growth journey, they are now seeking an experienced and hands‑on Financial Controller to take ownership of the finance function and play a key role in shaping the next phase of expansion.

The Role

This is a pivotal, hands‑on position where you will act as the first dedicated finance professional within the business. Working closely with the leadership team, you will be responsible for delivering accurate management reporting, financial forecasting, and board packs to support strategic decision‑making.

As the company scales, you will have the opportunity to build and lead a small finance team, develop robust systems, and help drive commercial performance through sound financial insight and process improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of financial systems, controls, and reporting
• Prepare accurate management accounts, board packs, and KPI reports
• Lead forecasting, budgeting, and cashflow management
• Partner with the Board to support strategic growth decisions
• Manage statutory accounts, VAT returns, and liaise with external accountants
• Handle day‑to‑day operations including invoicing, payroll, and debt management
• Conduct financial and project‑based analysis to support commercial decisions
• Recruit and develop a small finance team as the business expands

The ideal candidate will be a proactive and commercially minded finance professional who thrives in a growing, project‑based environment. You will be comfortable being both strategic and hands‑on, with the ambition to shape the finance function as the business evolves.

• ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualified, or actively working towards qualification
• Proven experience in a construction, fit‑out, or project‑led business
• Strong analytical and reporting skills
• Proficiency in Xero or similar cloud‑based financial systems
• Commercial acumen and the ability to challenge and influence at senior level
• Collaborative, pragmatic, and forward‑thinking approach

This role offers an excellent opportunity to make a tangible impact within a growing, design‑led business that values creativity, sustainability, and long‑term success.

You will join a forward‑thinking, purpose‑driven organisation offering:

• £55,000 – £65,000 per annum (depending on experience)
• Hybrid working options for flexibility and balance
• Profit share bonus scheme (Growth by Sharing)
• Autonomy and influence as the business scales
• The opportunity to shape the finance function and future team

How to Apply

If you are an experienced finance professional seeking a hands‑on role within a growing project‑based business, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to take the next step in your career and play a key role in shaping this company’s financial future.

IND25