Financial Controller

Hays PLC; Peterlee; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A Peterlee-based SME in luxury retail is seeking a strategic Financial Controller to lead their finance function. This role includes financial reporting, compliance oversight, and team leadership, targeting transformation and growth as they aim for £10M in revenue by 2025.

Benefits

Attractive salary and bonus package

Qualifications

• 5+ years post-qualification experience in SME finance leadership.
• Strong knowledge of UK GAAP and compliance.
• Proven experience with payroll management.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial reporting and audit oversight.
• Manage VAT returns and compliance documentation.
• Oversee payroll and implement process improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-Solving

UK GAAP

ERP (Business Central)

Advanced Excel

Education

ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified

Job description

Financial Controller, Peterlee

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 Responsibilities

Financial 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.g., 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.