Financial Controller

Harper May is working with a founder–led retail and lifestyle business operating across physical stores and online channels. The company has grown steadily over the past five years and now manages significant inventory, multi–channel operations, and a growing team across finance and supply chain. Recent expansion has created capacity constraints in the finance function, and the business is now seeking a Financial Controller to establish stronger reporting infrastructure and provide clearer visibility to the leadership team.

The Role
Reporting to the Finance Director, you will own the full cycle of financial reporting, statutory compliance, and internal controls. You will manage a small finance team, oversee month–end close, and work closely with operations and commercial leads to support budgeting, cash management, and performance analysis across both retail and e–commerce channels.

• Deliver timely and accurate management accounts and management information to support business decision–making
• Lead monthly close processes, balance sheet reconciliations, and reconciliation of key control accounts
• Manage the annual budget and rolling forecast cycle in collaboration with business unit leads
• Oversee payroll administration, tax compliance (PAYE, VAT, corporation tax), and pension responsibilities
• Maintain and document financial controls, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and audit requirements
• Lead the external audit and manage the statutory year–end filing process
• Mentor and manage the finance support team

What we are looking for

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) with proven Financial Controller experience in retail or consumer–facing business
• Strong technical accounting knowledge and ability to prepare consolidated management accounts
• Hands–on experience with working capital management, cash flow forecasting, and inventory accounting
• Proficiency in Excel and financial systems; ERP experience is a plus
• Comfortable managing upwards to senior leadership and explaining financial positions clearly to non–finance stakeholders
• Organised and structured, with the ability to prioritise effectively in a growing business