Interim - Financial Controller

Cpl UK; City Of London; On-site; GBP 74,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

CPL UK in London seeks an Interim Financial Controller to lead the finance function during a period of growth and systems enhancement. This hands-on role requires a qualified accountant to strengthen controls, drive process improvements, and develop a high-performing finance team.

Reporting to senior leadership, you will oversee month-end close, treasury, payroll, VAT, and statutory reporting while supporting ERP implementations and governance across multi-site operations.

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) or equivalent.
• Experience operating at Financial Controller level.
• Experience in multi-site organisations.
• Strong governance, controls and compliance knowledge.
• Experience with month-end close and audits.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coach the finance team.
• Review and embed finance processes, systems and controls.
• Support the implementation and optimisation of finance systems.
• Ensure timely month-end close and management reporting.
• Oversee cashflow management, treasury activities and financial planning.
• Manage payroll, VAT returns, balance sheet reconciliations and fixed assets.
• Produce high-quality management information for decision-making.
• Lead audit preparation and statutory reporting requirements.
• Ensure strong governance and procurement controls.
• Support growth initiatives and projects across the business.
• Build relationships with stakeholders across finance and operations.

Skills

Financial leadership

Controls & governance

Stakeholder management

Finance systems

Audit management

Month-end close

Education

ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent

Tools

ERP systems

Excel

Payroll software

Job description

3-6 Month Contract £400-£450 per day London 4 Days Office-Based

We are partnering with a growing multi-site organisation undergoing significant expansion and operational change. They are seeking an experienced Interim Financial Controller to lead the finance function during a critical period of development, systems enhancement, and process improvement.

This is a hands-on role requiring a qualified finance professional who can provide strong financial leadership while supporting the implementation and optimisation of finance systems, strengthening controls, and developing a high-performing finance team.

The Role

Reporting into senior leadership, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day management of the finance function, ensuring robust financial reporting, effective controls, and operational excellence.

A key focus of the assignment will be supporting the organisation through finance systems and process improvements, ensuring the team is fully supported and equipped to work effectively within an evolving environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the finance team, providing coaching, support and development.
• Review, improve and embed finance processes, systems and controls.
• Support the implementation and optimisation of finance and management information systems.
• Ensure the timely delivery of month-end close and management reporting.
• Oversee cashflow management, treasury activities and financial planning.
• Manage payroll, VAT returns, balance sheet reconciliations and fixed asset accounting.
• Produce high-quality management information to support strategic decision-making.
• Lead audit preparation and statutory reporting requirements.
• Ensure strong governance, compliance and procurement controls are in place.
• Support growth initiatives, operational projects and business expansion activities.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across finance and operations.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with:

• Proven experience operating at Financial Controller level.
• Strong finance systems and process improvement experience.
• A track record of successfully leading and developing finance teams.
• Experience managing month-end, statutory accounts and audit processes.
• Excellent financial controls, governance and compliance knowledge.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Experience within a multi-site organisation is highly desirable.

Working Pattern

• Ideally 4 days in the London office
• Occasional travel to operational sites may be required.
• Immediate start preferred.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced interim finance professional to make a tangible impact within a growing organisation, helping to strengthen systems, improve processes, support a finance team through change, and establish a strong platform for future growth.