Willis Global
Financial Controller
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Our client
Our client, a private equity-backed global distributor operating across aerospace, defence, and specialty chemicals, is recruiting for a Financial Controller for its UK Accounting Division, based at offices in Hertfordshire within close proximity to the M1 / M25.
This is a global role reporting into senior management at the company head office in the US. Proven experience reporting into Head Office is required to be considered for the role.
On Offer
- A key leadership role within a highly regarded forward thinking organisation with great potential for global grow
- Salary: c.£100K plus annual bonus up to 2
- Other benefits including generous annual leave
The Company
With group revenues approaching $400M and a footprint spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The organisation specialises in technical distribution, combining specialist products, regulatory expertise, and responsive logistics to support customers in highly regulated, mission-critical sectors.
The UK-based MRO division, headquartered in Hertfordshire, generates approximately $150M in annual revenue and is one of the group’s most strategically important platforms, serving a global customer base in the commercial aviation market. The division operates its own ERP environment while maintaining close integration with group-level reporting, treasury, and compliance.
Main Purpose of the Financial Controller
Reporting in to Senior Management, the Financial Controller is a hands-on role within the UK division, reporting to the Global Controller. You will oversee day-to-day accounting operations, monthly close, treasury activities, and financial controls.
The role includes managing a small, globally distributed accounting team, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial records, and liaising with group finance, auditors, and tax advisers. It suits someone detail-oriented, organised, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where deadlines and precision are essential.
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Key Responsibilities of the Financial Controller
Financial Control & Reporting
- Lead the end-to-end monthly close, delivering accurate P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow reporting within group deadlines.
- Prepare monthly management accounts packs, including variance analysis and KPI commentary, for review by the Global Controller.
- Support preparation of annual statutory accounts under UK GAAP / IFRS and coordinate external audits.
- Strengthen internal controls, including reconciliations, journal approvals, and segregation of duties.
- Manage corporation tax packs, VAT returns, payroll tax filings, and other regulatory submissions with external advisers.
- Oversee intercompany accounting and ensure accurate reconciliation to group consolidation.
Compliance
- Oversee compliance with UK pension requirements.
- Ensure timely PAYE/NIC payments and accurate RTI submissions.
- Reconcile payroll and HMRC accounts.
- Meet statutory filing deadlines with Companies House.
Budgeting & Commercial
- Support the annual budgeting process, consolidating divisional inputs.
- Assist FP&A with detailed actuals reporting by cost centre and department.
- Conduct ad hoc spend analysis to support forecasting and management decision-making.
Working Capital & Treasury
- Report on working capital performance, overseeing AR, AP, and inventory to improve DSO, DPO, and stock turns.
- Support cash flow reporting and monitor receivables and payables.
- Work with the credit function to manage customer exposure and maintain appropriate provisioning.
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Team Leadership & Development
- Supervise a small accounting team (AP/AR) of 3.
- Set objectives, provide feedback, and support professional development.
- Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Ensure cross-training and continuity across critical accounting processes.
Qualifications & Experience Required to be Considered
- Fully qualified ACA / ACCA / CIMA.
- Minimum 5 years post-qualification or relevant accounting experience, including at least 2 years in working for a stockist / inventory led / materials management organisation
- Strong experience managing month-end close and maintaining accurate financial records.
- Practice background welcome; industry experience preferred.
- Experience in distribution, manufacturing, logistics, or similar sectors advantageous.
- Demonstrable experience managing and developing accounting staff.
Technical Skills
- Strong command of UK GAAP and IFRS.
- Advanced Excel skills; experience with Adaptive beneficial.
- Solid understanding of foreign exchange accounting.
- Hands-on ERP experience; familiarity with consolidation and reporting tools.
- Working knowledge of UK tax compliance (corporation tax, VAT, PAYE/NIC).
Leadership & Personal Attributes
- A natural leader who sets high standards and takes ownership.
- Clear communicator able to present financial information confidently.
- Calm under pressure, able to manage multiple deadlines without compromising quality.
- Collaborative, proactive, and detail-oriented with strong follow-through.
For full details, contact Willis Global - Experts in Recruiting
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