Strategic Finance Controller for Growth & Governance

Cartisian Recruitment; Runcorn; On-site; GBP 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Cartisian Recruitment in Runcorn is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead and develop the group finance function, ensuring robust financial reporting, controls and governance.

Reporting to the Group CFO, you will manage cash flow, statutory accounts, VAT and tax, and provide strategic commercial insight to support Board decisions. There is clear scope for progression as the business grows, with opportunities to broaden responsibilities and influence the senior leadership team.

Qualifications

• Qualified ACA/ACCA/CIMA with strong UK GAAP knowledge.
• Proven experience leading a finance team.
• Experience delivering board-ready financial reporting.
• Strong cash flow forecasting and budgeting skills.
• Knowledge of VAT, corporation tax and payroll processes.
• Advanced Excel and finance system proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop and mentor the finance team with cross-training and strong business continuity.
• Oversee the month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring reporting deadlines are met.
• Prepare and review monthly management accounts (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow).
• Oversee client account compliance and VAT, corporation tax, and PAYE requirements.
• Lead the annual audit process with external auditors and statutory accounts preparation.
• Develop and maintain management information, KPI dashboards and reporting.
• Manage rolling five-year forecast and 13-week cash flow projection.
• Oversee bank approvals for payments and maintain strong controls.
• Identify and implement finance process improvements and efficiencies.
• Provide commercial insight and financial support to the Board and leadership team.

Skills

ACA/ACCA/CIMA qualified

UK GAAP knowledge

Finance team leadership

Financial reporting

Cash flow forecasting

VAT and tax oversight

Excel advanced

Education

Chartered accountant qualification

Job description

Cartisian Recruitment in Runcorn is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead and develop the group finance function, ensuring robust financial reporting, controls and governance.

Reporting to the Group CFO, you will manage cash flow, statutory accounts, VAT and tax, and provide strategic commercial insight to support Board decisions. There is clear scope for progression as the business grows, with opportunities to broaden responsibilities and influence the senior leadership team.