Financial Controller

Reed; Watford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services company in Watford is seeking a qualified Financial Controller to oversee financial operations, ensure compliance with UK regulations, and manage the finance team. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5-10 years of financial management experience, familiarity with SAGE 200, and strong leadership skills. This role offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5-10 years of experience in financial management.
• Experience in a firm of chartered accountants is preferable.
• Familiarity with corporate tax and VAT regulations in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial operations of the UK entity and subsidiaries.
• Prepare financial statements and management accounts.
• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual closing processes.
• Provide financial insights for strategic decisions.
• Manage cash flow and treasury functions.

Skills

Financial management

SAGE 200 or equivalent

ERP system

Advanced Excel skills

Variance analysis

Education

Fully qualified ICA/ACCA/CIMA

Tools

SAGE 200

ERP systems

Job description

Financial Controller – fully qualified

Reporting to: Chief Financial Officer

Location: Watford

Salary: Up to £75,000 (depending on qualifications and experience)

Qualification: Fully qualified ICA/ACCA/CIMA

Experience and Skills

• Minimum 5‑10 years, including financial management and preferably experience in a firm of chartered accountants.
• Experience in using SAGE 200 or equivalent accounting package.
• Experience in using an ERP system and advanced Excel skills.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Oversee the financial operations of the UK entity and its subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with local accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare financial statements, management accounts and consolidated reports.
• Lead the monthly, quarterly and annual closing processes, ensuring accuracy, timeliness and adherence to reporting deadlines.
• Conduct variance analysis (actuals vs. budget), identifying risks and opportunities to inform strategic decision‑making.
• Ensure inter‑company reconciliations between the UK entity and its subsidiaries.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Strategic Planning

• Work closely with the Management Accountant to develop and manage the annual budget and rolling forecasts.
• Provide financial insights to support strategic business decisions, including cost control, investment opportunities and revenue optimisation.
• Partner with commercial teams to assess the profitability of B2B and B2C operations, ensuring margin sustainability and revenue growth.

Taxation & Compliance

• Oversee the preparation and submission of corporate tax, VAT and indirect tax filings for the UK and its subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
• Collaborate with tax advisers where required to optimise transfer pricing and intercompany transactions, minimising tax risks.
• Ensure adherence to HMRC (UK) and relevant local tax authority regulations, staying up to date with legislative changes.
• Support external audits (both statutory and group audits), ensuring all documentation and audit queries are handled efficiently.

Cash Flow & Treasury Management

• Manage the group’s cash flow, ensuring adequate liquidity and working capital for operational and strategic needs.
• Oversee currency exposure and assist in developing strategies to hedge foreign exchange risks, particularly across GBP, EUR and USD.
• Optimise treasury processes, including payment controls and cash flow forecasting.

Risk Management & Internal Controls

• Implement and maintain robust internal controls to prevent financial misstatements, fraud and operational risks.
• Work closely with external auditors to ensure financial and operational control testing is effectively conducted.
• Manage and develop the finance team, ensuring continuous training, professional development and performance management.
• Liaise with legal, tax and commercial teams to ensure cross‑functional alignment and effective decision‑making.

ERP & Financial Systems

• Oversee the ERP and financial reporting systems, ensuring efficient financial reporting, data accuracy and operational effectiveness.
• Drive automation and process improvements to enhance financial reporting, internal controls and efficiency in finance operations.
• Ensure system integrity and support enhancements that align with business growth and scalability.

The scope of the roles and responsibilities may expand or be varied depending on the needs of the Company’s business to adapt to changing market conditions.