Financial Controller

Hays Accountancy and Finance; Peterlee; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the luxury retail sector is seeking a strategic Financial Controller to lead their finance function through transformation and growth. This role involves overseeing financial reporting, compliance, payroll, and process improvement while supporting the CEO and enhancing team culture. Candidates should have ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualifications and significant experience in an SME context.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of post-qualification experience in a finance leadership role.
• Strong understanding of VAT, PAYE, and compliance in the UK.
• Proven track record in process improvement and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial reporting, compliance, and audit processes.
• Manage VAT returns and maintain compliance documentation.
• Develop SOPs for financial processes and oversee payroll.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem Solving

UK GAAP

Payroll Knowledge

Advanced Excel

Education

ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified

Tools

ERP (Business Central)

Job description

Your new company
This Peterlee-based SME, who operate in the luxury retail sector, are aiming to reach £10M in revenue by the end of 2025 and are seeking a strategic and hands-on
Financial Controller to lead the finance function through a period of transformation and growth.
Your new role
You will lead financial reporting, compliance, and process improvement while supporting the CEO and wider team through a cultural shift.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Reporting & Audit Oversight

• Deliver monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements (UK GAAP)
• Lead year-end accounts and audit processes
• Reconcile accounts and ensure ERP (Business Central) data accuracy

Tax & Compliance

• Manage VAT returns, PAYE, and HMRC obligations
• Submit ONS surveys and maintain compliance documentation

Payroll Management

• Oversee payroll for multiple teams
• Resolve past payroll issues and implement pre-approval processes

Process Improvement

• Develop SOPs for all financial processes
• Improve ERP data validation and implement weekly financial reviews

Budgeting & Cost Management

• Support cost-saving initiatives (e., 5% logistics reduction)
• Prepare forecasts and monitor margins on key product bundles

Team Leadership

• Foster a culture of respect, integrity, and empowerment

Stakeholder Communication

• Provide insights to the CEO and ECF Group
• Liaise with auditors, HMRC, and other external stakeholders

What you'll need to succeed
Essential:

• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with 5+ years post-qualification
• Proven experience in an SME finance leadership role
• Strong UK GAAP, payroll, and compliance knowledge
• ERP (preferably Business Central) and advanced Excel skills
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities

What you'll get in return
An attractive salary and bonus package is offered.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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