Financial Controller

Financial Controller St Albans We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Financial Controller to join our finance leadership team. Reporting directly to the CFO, this is a pivotal role with responsibility for financial reporting, audit management, compliance, controls, and the day-to-day leadership of the finance function. You will play a key role in ensuring the integrity of financial information, supporting strategic decision-making, driving continuous improvement, and leading a high-performing finance team. This position offers significant exposure to senior stakeholders across the business and the opportunity to contribute to major systems and process improvement initiatives. Key Responsibilities Financial Reporting & Controls • Oversee all bookkeeping, accounting, and month-end processes. • Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual management accounts. • Lead the preparation of annual statutory accounts and interim audit processes. • Maintain and develop the chart of accounts and financial reporting framework within SAP. • Ensure robust financial controls and compliance across the organisation. Audit, Tax & Compliance • Lead annual and interim audits and manage relationships with external auditors. • Prepare quarterly VAT returns and oversee regulatory submissions. • Support corporation tax, capital allowances, and other tax compliance activities with external advisers. • Manage annual R&D tax claims and assist with HMRC enquiries and requests. • Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and reporting requirements. Cash Flow & Working Capital • Review and monitor aged debtors. • Oversee debtor billing, hospitality revenue, and ticketing income. • Manage bi-monthly operational and capital expenditure payment runs. • Prepare management reports for lenders and key stakeholders. Systems & Process Improvement • Support the ongoing development and integration of finance systems, including SAP and wider business reporting tools. • Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency, reporting accuracy, and financial insight. • Maintain fixed asset registers, including intangible assets, and oversee monthly accruals and journals. Leadership & Team Management • Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team. • Manage performance, training, and development of direct reports. • Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture within the finance department. About You Essential Requirements • ACA or ACCA qualified. • Strong experience in financial reporting, management accounting, and financial analysis. • Advanced Excel and systems skills. • Proven leadership and people management experience. • Strong understanding of financial controls, audit processes, and compliance. • Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. • Exceptional attention to detail and organisational skills. • Ability to manage confidential information with professionalism and discretion. Desirable Skills • Previous experience within a complex, multi-department organisation. Benefits • 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays • Additional day off for your birthday • Life Insurance • Pension Scheme • Employee Assistance Programme • Ongoing Training & Development Opportunities If this sounds like an exciting role please do apply.