Financial Controller

Salary: £68,000 - £78,000

Overview We are seeking an experienced and fully qualified Financial Controller (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) to take ownership of the finance function within a growing SME operating in the construction sector. This role is ideal for a commercially minded finance leader who thrives in hands-on environments and has strong experience supporting ambitious, fast-paced SME businesses. Experience with the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) is essential.

This role is office based.

Financial Management & Reporting
• Take full responsibility for the accuracy and integrity of company financial records.
• Prepare detailed monthly management accounts, variance analysis, and Board commentary.
• Lead the annual budgeting cycle and collaborate with stakeholders on financial planning.
• Produce rolling forecasts and monitor performance against targets.
• Oversee year-end accounts preparation and liaise with external auditors.
• Manage working capital, debtor performance, supplier terms, and cashflow forecasting.
• Provide commercial financial insights to support decision-making.

Project Accounting
• Monitor project budgets, forecasts, and financial performance to ensure projects remain on track.
• Produce regular financial reports, including cost analysis, variance reporting, and cash flow tracking.
• Manage project billing, revenue recognition, and month-end accounting processes.
• Work closely with Project Managers to provide financial insights and support decision-making.
• Ensure accurate allocation of costs, expenses, and labour to specific projects.
• Maintain compliance with internal controls, audit requirements, and financial policies.
• Assist with project setup, contract review, and financial risk assessment.

CIS Responsibilities
• Ensure full compliance with HMRC Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) requirements.
• Conduct subcontractor verification checks and manage deduction rates.
• Review subcontractor invoices for compliance with CIS legislation.
• Approve and submit monthly CIS returns and issue subcontractor statements.
• Maintain accurate CIS audit trails and resolve subcontractor queries.

Operational Finance Oversight
• Manage purchase and sales ledger processes, ensuring accuracy and timely processing.
• Oversee bank reconciliations, cash allocation, and treasury activity.
• Approve weekly and monthly payment runs with strong control procedures.
• Ensure VAT returns, payroll journals, and statutory reporting are completed on time.
• Maintain relationships with auditors, HMRC, banks, and insurers.

Systems, Controls & Process Improvement
• Continually evaluate finance processes and implement improvements.
• Lead or support new system implementations or upgrades.
• Maintain documentation, policies, and a strong internal control environment.

Leadership & Team Management
• Provide leadership and development to the finance team.
• Conduct reviews, training, and mentoring to support team capabilities.
• Promote professionalism, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Fully qualified: ACA / ACCA / CIMA.Strong SME experience, ideally in  CIS knowledge.

Ability to manage full-finance operations.

Strong analytical and communication skills

Benefits Competitive salary £68,000 - £78,000

Pension Car allowance
38-day annual leave including statutory bank holidays Free parking