Financial Controller

£80,000 – £90,000 + up to 15% bonus, hybrid working – Route to CFO

Forge Talent is exclusively representing a privately owned, multi-faceted group with a turnover of c. £200m. We are seeking an experienced Financial Controller with CFO aspirations to join the business at an exciting time of growth and transformation.

This is a hands-on role. You will be central to a full finance transformation following a recent merger, working alongside the CFO to shape processes, systems, and the finance team.

Phase 1 is very much about rolling up your sleeves: building the finance function, embedding robust systems, and improving reporting and controls. Phase 2 is the strategic reward for that effort, offering a clear pathway to a future CFO role.

• Maintain and enhance financial systems, supporting ERP upgrades and automation initiatives
• Streamline processes to improve efficiency, reporting accuracy, and internal controls
• Use Power BI to its full potential
• Enhance the Board pack, MI, and all management data packs
• Lead year-end statutory accounts in line with UK GAAP/IFRS and manage external audits
• Maintain financial controls, compliance, and timely reporting to the US group, lenders, and auditors
• Prepare monthly management accounts (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) and Board pack

• Lead annual budgeting and periodic forecasting with senior leadership
• Provide financial analysis, variance reporting, scenario modelling, and investment appraisals
• Monitor cash flow, working capital, and liquidity to support business planning

• Ensure compliance with UK tax requirements (VAT, Corporation Tax, PAYE) and Companies House filings
• Collaborate with US group finance on transfer pricing and regulatory reporting as required
• Manage and develop the finance team, setting objectives and reviewing performance
• Support capability development and a culture of continuous improvement

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
• Strong experience in financial control, reporting, and compliance
• Proven experience leading audits and preparing statutory accounts
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with finance systems
• Confident communicator with finance and non-finance stakeholders
• Experience in services or project-based environments
• Strong understanding of WIP

• Up to 15% bonus (business and personal performance)