Financial Controller

Location: Salford

We are seeking an experienced and commercially experienced FC to lead a small finance function and support strategic decision-making across the business. This is a key leadership role responsible for financial reporting, cash flow management, budgeting, compliance, and team development. You will play a critical role in ensuring the financial health of the organisation while driving process improvements and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities Financial Reporting & Month-End Close Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes Produce accurate and timely management accounts Ensure compliance with accounting standards and internal policies Deliver insightful financial analysis and commentary to senior leadership Cash Flow & Working Capital Management Monitor daily cash flow and liquidity Prepare rolling cash flow forecasts Optimise working capital through effective debtor and creditor management Manage banking relationships and funding requirements Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning Lead the annual budget and periodic forecasting cycles Partner with department heads to track and improve performance Analyse financial variances and provide commercial insights Support strategic decisions through financial modelling Financial Controls, Compliance & Audit Maintain robust financial controls and governance frameworks Lead external audits and statutory reporting Ensure compliance with tax, VAT, and regulatory requirements Continuously improve financial processes and systems Team Leadership & Process Improvement Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team Drive continuous improvement across finance operations Enhance reporting systems, automation, and efficiencies Build a high-performance, collaborative team culture Credit Control Management Oversee the Credit Control function and debt collection strategy Manage customer accounts and minimise overdue balances Escalate disputes and reduce bad debt exposure Accounts Payable Management Oversee supplier payments and invoice processing Ensure accurate workflows and compliance Maintain strong supplier relationships and resolve queries Strengthen purchase-to-pay controls Qualifications Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field (preferred) Strong understanding of UK GAAP / IFRS Advanced Excel and financial systems expertise

Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Sage 200, Microsoft Dynamics 365) desirable Experience Finance experience, with experience in a senior leadership role Proven experience in Financial Controller, Finance Manager, or similar role Strong background in reporting, forecasting, and cash flow management Experience managing Accounts Payable and Credit Control teams Track record of improving financial controls and processes Experience leading audits and ensuring statutory compliance Exposure to fast-paced or multi-entity environments is advantageous Skills & Competencies Excellent leadership and stakeholder management skills Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities High attention to detail and accuracy Ability to communicate financial insights to non-financial audiences Organised with the ability to meet tight deadlines Proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement Commercially focused with strong business partnering skills