Financial Controller. LilyLifestyle

Financial Controller - Construction Industry - Carlisle The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Financial Controller to join a growing business in Carlisle. This pivotal role within the leadership team offers the chance to influence strategic direction while remaining close to day‑to‑day financial operations. You’ll act as a key business partner, providing practical financial insight, strengthening controls, and supporting sustainable, profitable growth.

• Business Partnering & Strategic Input
  • Contribute to senior leadership discussions, offering clear and pragmatic financial guidance.
  • Challenge and support decision‑making to improve commercial outcomes.
  • Help shape financial direction aligned to the company’s growth plans.
• Financial Governance & Compliance
  • Maintain robust financial controls and ensure regulatory compliance.
  • Oversee tax, VAT, CIS, and payroll‑related obligations.
  • Manage external relationships including auditors, advisors, and banking partners.
• Planning, Reporting & Performance
  • Lead budgeting cycles, forecasts, and longer‑term planning.
  • Deliver timely management accounts with insightful analysis.
  • Turn financial data into actionable insight to support operational performance.
• Cash & Risk Management
  • Take ownership of cash flow forecasting and working capital management.
  • Identify and mitigate financial risks across the business.
  • Explore funding opportunities, grants, and industry‑related schemes.
• Systems & Operational Oversight
  • Take responsibility for finance systems, driving efficiency and improvements.
  • Provide oversight of payroll activities and associated compliance.
  • Manage relationships with IT providers to ensure system effectiveness.
• Team Leadership & Development
  • Lead, motivate, and develop the finance team.
  • Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
  • Build strong cross‑functional relationships across the organisation.

• You are an experienced finance leader who enjoys balancing strategic thinking with a hands‑on approach.
• Fully qualified (ACCA, ACA or CIMA).
• Background within construction or a project‑based environment.
• Strong knowledge of CIS and subcontractor payments.
• Track record of producing high‑quality financial reporting.
• Comfortable operating at senior level and influencing non‑finance stakeholders.
• Systems‑savvy, with experience of finance platforms (e.g. Sage).
• Self‑sufficient and confident taking ownership of the finance function.
• Commercially minded and results‑driven.
• Calm, credible, and able to influence at all levels.
• Clear communicator with the ability to simplify complex information.
• Proactive, organised, and focused on continuous improvement.

• Key leadership role with genuine influence on business performance.
• Opportunity to shape and improve finance processes.
• Join a growing, forward‑thinking organisation.
• Competitive salary up to £60,000 per annum.
• Annual leave 25 days plus bank holidays.
• Company pension.
• Full time role 39 hours per week – Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5pm, Friday 8.30am to 4pm.