Group Financial Controller

Fidra Energy; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking energy company in Scotland is looking for a Group Financial Controller to manage financial reporting and controls, lead the finance team, and support strategic decision-making. This role is essential in driving efficiency and growth as the company expands its operations in the energy sector. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in financial management and a professional accounting qualification.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years post qualification experience in a senior finance role.
• Hands-on financial control experience within a multi-entity environment.
• Strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial management and reporting across the group.
• Lead preparation of monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements.
• Manage audits and tax compliance.

Skills

Financial accounting knowledge

VAT and corporation tax knowledge

Analytical skills

Leadership capabilities

Advanced Excel proficiency

Strategic thinking

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Education

Professional Qualification: ACA, ACCA, CIMA

Tools

SAGE

Job description

Overview

The Group Financial Controller will oversee all financial management and reporting across the group, ensuring robust financial control, compliance, and accurate consolidation of accounts. This role is pivotal in supporting strategic decision‑making by providing accurate forecasting and clear financial insights. The role involves managing the key finance processes, developing the team, liaising with key stakeholders, and driving continuous improvement in financial processes.

Context

Operating Environment

Fidra Energy has recently raised c. £1bn to invest in the construction of very large Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in the UK. In this fast‑growing area of the market, Fidra Energy has ambition to develop, construct and operate 10GW of BESS within five years, thus requiring significant further funding and growth of the organisation. The Group Financial Controller role is an exciting opportunity to join the business at this early stage to support the design, development and funding of the business as it moves from having solely a development focus to scaling up to manage multiple large‑scale construction and operational projects.

The post holder will report to the CFO.

As with all roles within Fidra Energy, the scope will be dependent on day‑to‑day requirements and is expected to evolve significantly with the growth of the organisation.

Principal Accountabilities

• Group Accounting and Reporting
  • Lead the preparation of accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual group financial statements.
  • Prepare Monthly Management and Shareholder Reports, and Quarterly Board Reports.
  • Develop accounting policies and oversee compliance with accounting standards and relevant regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain and develop effective accounting processes and suitable controls including ownership of accounts payable, along with monitoring processes and systems.
  • Responsible for maintaining and developing the SAGE Intacct accounting system with support from IT and outsourced provider.
• Group Financial Planning and Analysis
  • Work closely with the CFO, senior management, and department heads to support business decisions.
  • Lead the preparation of group budgets, forecasts, and cash flow projections.
  • Support the planning and financial implications of group structural changes as a result of growth.
  • Work with Executive team to identify and manage Enterprise Risks.
• Treasury and Cash Management
  • Prepare group cash flow forecasts. Manage intercompany funding and ensure optimal level of entity liquidity.
  • Key liaison with account bank for banking services and to optimise returns on cash.
  • Report and manage collateral and credit requirements.
  • Support Loan Facility reporting and required payments.
• Business Development and Planning
  • Provide financial analysis for potential M&A activity, investments, or divestitures.
  • Support financial analysis, finance and tax aspects of growth opportunities.
  • Support equity and debt raises.
  • Lead the long‑term business planning process.
• Audit and Tax Leadership
  • Lead and manage the statutory audit, liaising with the auditors and outsourced statutory account producers.
  • Lead tax compliance and support tax planning and manage tax risks.
• Team Leadership & Development
  • Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team to deliver high performance.
  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing within the team.
• Process Improvement & Systems
  • Drive efficiency by improving financial systems, reporting tools, and automation.
  • Identify and implement best practices for financial reporting and control.
  • Engage with external advisors and outsource providers to optimise service.

This list is not exhaustive:

Dimensions

• Direct Reports: Initially 1 with expectation to increase with business growth

Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications & Experience

Knowledge & Skills

Essential

• Strong knowledge of financial accounting and control including consolidation and corporate governance.
• Strong knowledge of VAT and corporation tax.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and people management capabilities.
• Advanced proficiency in financial systems (ERP) and Excel.
• Strategic thinker with a commercial mindset.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• Collaborative team player with a proactive approach.

Desirable

• Knowledge of SAGE

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Professional Qualification: ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent.
• 8-10 years post qualification with hands‑on financial control experience and a proven track record in a senior finance role, ideally within a group or multi‑entity environment.