Group Controller (Accounting)

Paradies Lagardère - Retail; Uxbridge; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Group Controller to lead its accounting function. This pivotal role involves managing financial reporting, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and overseeing audits across multiple countries. The ideal candidate will have extensive accounting experience, strong leadership skills, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. Join a dynamic team dedicated to continuous improvement and strategic decision-making. This opportunity offers a chance to make a significant impact in a forward-thinking company committed to excellence and inclusivity.

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of accounting experience with leadership capabilities.
• Qualified accountant with strong technical accounting knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the group accounting team and oversee financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and manage audit processes.

Skills

Accounting Experience

Financial Reporting

Compliance with Accounting Standards

Leadership Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving Abilities

Education

Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

Tools

Business Central

Tagetik

SAP BPC

Job description

Company Description

APCOA is Europe's leading parking operator, managing over 12,000 locations across 12 countries. As we transform from traditional parking provider to urban mobility hub operator, we're seeking exceptional talent to drive our financial strategy and performance.

Group Controller (Accounting) - APCOA Group HQ

Location: Uxbridge, UK (on-site, 5 days per week initially)

Department: Finance

Reports to: Chief Financial Officer

We are looking for an experienced Group Controller to lead our accounting function across the group. This key leadership role will be responsible for managing financial reporting, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, and overseeing the audit process across our multinational operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Lead and develop the group accounting team while working closely with local finance teams.
2. Oversee the month-end and year-end close processes across the group.
3. Manage the preparation of consolidated financial statements.
4. Lead the group audit process, along with the Internal Auditor and under the direction of the Audit Committee, and support country-level audits.
5. Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and regulations.
6. Drive continuous improvement of accounting processes and controls.
7. Support strategic decision-making with accurate financial information.
8. Manage relationships with external auditors and other financial stakeholders.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

1. 10-15 years of accounting experience.
2. Minimum 5-7 years in a deputy role within an accounting team in a multinational company integrating several countries OR experience as Head of Accounting in a smaller company, preferably in a B2C environment.
3. Experience working in portfolio companies of private equity or infrastructure funds.
4. 5-7 years' experience as an auditor is essential.
5. Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
6. Proficient in Business Central.
7. Experience with Tagetik advisable.
8. Exposure to SAP BPC is a plus.
9. Strong technical accounting knowledge and understanding of international accounting standards.
10. Excellent attention to detail with a proven track record of accuracy.
11. German language knowledge advisable.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

1. Hands-on approach - a true "doer" willing to roll up sleeves and get involved at all levels.
2. Strong communication skills with ability to interact effectively with various stakeholders.
3. Team builder with leadership capabilities.
4. Analytical mind with problem-solving abilities.
5. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
6. Adaptable to change and continuous improvement mindset.

LOCATION & WORK ARRANGEMENT

1. Based in our Uxbridge office
2. Full-time presence (5 days per week) required initially

APCOA Group HQ is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of background.