Financial Controller – North Europe 12 Month FTC

JD GROUP; Bury; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the retail sector is seeking a Financial Controller to join their Europe reporting team in Bury. The role involves overseeing financial reporting, governance, and leading a team. The ideal candidate will have a strong financial background, excellent leadership skills, and experience in the retail or fashion industry. This position offers the opportunity to drive financial transformation and ensure sound financial decisions across the business.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years post-qualification experience in a senior commercial finance role.
• Experience in retail or fashion industry preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the team, overseeing financial reporting.
• Implement the Group Internal Controls programme.
• Collaborate with external audit teams.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Time Management

Education

Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or Equivalent)

Tools

Financial Software

Job description

Responsible to: Head of Reporting – Europe

Department: Finance

Location: Bury, Gtr Manchester. BL9 8RR

Role overview:

As the Financial Controller, you will play a key role in the Europe reporting team, focusing on financial reporting, controls & governance, external audits, and supporting the Finance Transformation programme. This role requires excellent financial management skills, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and ensuring sound financial decisions across the business.

You will work closely with the UK & ROI Reporting team, Group Reporting team, Internal Controls team, Europe Commercial Finance team, external auditors (Deloitte), and the Finance Transformation team.

You will lead a team of 9 people (3 direct reports) and support their continuous professional development.

Key duties & responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Management: Lead and manage the team, overseeing financial reporting and encouraging continuous improvements.
2. Financial Reporting: Develop processes and team structure to deliver accurate results within group reporting deadlines.
3. Controls & Governance: Implement the Group Internal Controls programme and develop operational controls in a timely manner.
4. Balance Sheet Reconciliation: Review current processes and improve the Balance Sheet Reconciliation process as per Group Internal Controls requirements.
5. Audit: Collaborate with external audit teams to ensure audits are managed effectively and on schedule.
6. Collaboration with Specialist Finance Teams: Work with teams like Shared Service Centre, Distribution, Digital, Property to deliver coherent Profit and Loss and Balance Sheet.
7. Budget and Forecast Management: Partner with the Commercial Finance team to analyze performance versus plan and support Budget and Forecast processes.
8. Team Culture and Development: Foster a team culture aligned with the Group’s values and support team development.
9. Financial Transformation: Influence the implementation of systems, processes, and controls to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

This role requires a blend of financial expertise, leadership, and effective communication to drive success within the Reporting Finance team.

Skills/Experience/Knowledge required:

• Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or Equivalent): Minimum of 5 years post-qualification experience in a senior commercial finance role.
• Industry Expertise (Retail or Fashion): Experience in retail or fashion industry preferred.
• Financial Acumen: Strong knowledge of accounting principles, standards, and practices; proficiency in financial software and systems.
• Analytical and Communication Skills: Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills with teams and senior management.
• Leadership and Team Development: Ability to lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing team.
• Time Management and Resilience: Capable of working under pressure, meeting deadlines, and managing multiple priorities.
• Passion for Sports Fashion: Enthusiasm and awareness of industry trends.
• Positive Attitude and Drive: Demonstrate positivity, resilience, and proactive problem-solving approach.