Job Specification –Global Financial Controller

Job Summary

Our client is seeking a highly motivated, experienced, and detail-oriented Global Financial Controller to join their finance team. The Global Financial Controller will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company's financial management, including corporate accounting, regulatory and financial reporting, budget and forecasts preparation, as well as development of internal control policies and procedures. This role is critical in ensuring the financial health and integrity of the company and supporting strategic decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Reporting: Manage the preparation and delivery of timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with IFRS or UK GAAP.

Management Accounts: Prepare detailed management accounts, including variance analysis, commentary, and KPIs reporting to support business performance reviews.

Budgeting & Forecasting: Lead the annual budgeting process and regular forecasting cycles.

Cash Flow Management: Oversee cash flow planning, forecasting, and reporting; ensure adequate liquidity for operational needs.

Internal Controls: Develop, implement, and maintain robust internal controls and financial procedures to ensure accuracy, compliance, and risk mitigation.

Audit & Compliance: Manage the year-end audit process, liaising with external auditors. Ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements, including tax filings (VAT, Corporation Tax, etc.).

Statutory Accounts: Oversee the preparation and filing of statutory accounts.

Process Improvement: Identify and implement improvements to financial processes, systems, and reporting to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Team Leadership: Manage the finance team of 6 in the London office and 1 in the France office.

Stakeholder Management: Build strong relationships and communicate effectively with internal stakeholders and external partners (banks, auditors, advisors).

Financial Analysis: Provide insightful financial analysis and ad-hoc reporting to support strategic initiatives and decision-making.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Professional certification such as CPA, ACA, or ACCA required.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role managing international accounting operations.
• Sound knowledge of UK VAT and Taxation, UK GAAP, and IFRS.
• Demonstrable experience in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables).
• Proven experience in managing a team.

Desired Qualifications & Experience:

• Previous experience in the logistics or shipping industry is advantageous but not essential.
• Experience with SAP is desirable, but not essential.
• Experience in a high-growth or SME environment.
• Audit experience is highly desirable.
• General office admin management also desirable.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary package: Competitive Salary
• Pension enrolment 6% employer 2% employee contribution
• Private Health Insurance and Life Insurance
• Generous holiday allowance: 25 days per year + bank holidays
• Additional one day off to celebrate your birthday.
• After probation period one day working from home per week