Financial Controller

Harper May is working with a founder-led retail group operating across physical stores and e-commerce, with sustainable revenue growth and a clear path to scaled multi-channel distribution. The business has invested in supply chain and technology over the past two years and is now stabilising its financial infrastructure. They are seeking a Financial Controller to build robust reporting, strengthen internal controls, and support the leadership team with reliable commercial insight.

The Role

Reporting to the Finance Director, you will own the full cycle of financial reporting, compliance, and team management. Your focus is on creating clarity around profitability, cash flow, and operational performance in a retail business where decisions move quickly and accuracy matters. This is a hands-on role combining technical finance discipline with commercial partnership across buying, operations, and the Board.

Produce monthly management accounts and consolidated reporting to Board level, identifying trends and commercial impact

Drive the annual budget and rolling forecast cycle, translating business strategy into clear financial plans

Establish and maintain month-end close procedures, ensuring consistent, timely delivery of accounts

Own statutory compliance, tax filing (VAT, corporation tax, payroll), and audit liaison

Monitor working capital actively, focusing on inventory valuation, payables, and cash movement

Oversee the finance team's development and day-to-day execution, creating a culture of accuracy and ownership

What we are looking for

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) with demonstrated experience in a Financial Controller or senior accounts role

Retail, consumer goods, or distribution sector background preferred; you understand inventory, seasonality, and margin drivers

Confident with Excel, financial modelling, and accounting systems; comfortable learning new platforms

Clear communicator able to translate numbers into business language for non-finance stakeholders

Organised, detail-focused, and able to manage competing priorities without losing sight of deadlines

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