Financial Controller

Harper May is working with a well-established retail group with stores across the UK and a growing direct-to-consumer channel. The business is founder-led, profitable, and focused on controlled expansion without compromising operational or financial discipline. They are now seeking a Financial Controller to embed rigorous reporting standards, strengthen internal controls, and provide the finance function with clearer visibility into performance across channels.

The Role
Reporting to the Finance Director, you will own the monthly close cycle, statutory reporting, and the day-to-day finance operation. You will work with a small team, leading them through planning cycles and audit processes while acting as a trusted commercial partner to the operations and retail leadership.

• Close the books monthly and produce timely, accurate management accounts for senior review
• Build and maintain a control framework covering revenue, stock, cash, and payroll processes
• Prepare annual statutory accounts and lead engagement with external auditors
• Support annual budgeting and quarterly reforecasting aligned to trading performance
• Oversee tax compliance, including VAT returns and corporation tax filing
• Monitor and improve working capital, particularly stock holdings and receivables
• Recruit, manage, and develop a small finance team

What we are looking for

• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with at least five years in a similar controller or senior accounting role
• Direct experience in retail, hospitality, or another multi-site operational environment
• Capable with Excel and comfortable adopting accounting systems such as Xero or Sage
• Strong written and verbal communication with confidence presenting to the board
• Hands-on approach; you are comfortable rolling up your sleeves in a lean finance team