Financial Controller

Car Planet; Watford; On-site; GBP 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing used car supermarket is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead its finance team in Watford. The role involves overseeing financial strategy, management accounts, cash flow, and compliance. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in the motor trade industry, strong technical proficiency, and a relevant accounting qualification. This is an excellent opportunity for career progression in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Financial Controller or in a similar role, ideally in the motor trade industry.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to drive business improvements.
• Experience managing and developing finance teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting to support business growth.
• Prepare and present accurate monthly management accounts.
• Implement and maintain strong internal financial controls.

Skills

Financial Analysis

Leadership

Attention to Detail

Education

ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualified

Tools

Xero

Excel

Job description

Direct message the job poster from Car Planet

Location: Watford, Hertfordshire

Salary: Up to £70,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Reporting To: Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)

Department: Accounting/Finance

Company Overview

We are a fast-growing used car supermarket with locations in Watford, Barnet, and Enfield, stocking over 1,500 vehicles. As part of our ongoing expansion, we are looking for an experienced and commercially astute Financial Controller to lead our finance team. This is a senior role, responsible for financial strategy, reporting, and compliance, ensuring strong financial controls and processes are in place. Experience in the motor trade industry is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Planning: Lead financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting to support business growth.

Management Accounts: Prepare and present accurate monthly management accounts, offering insights into financial performance and key business metrics.

Cash Flow & Working Capital: Oversee cash flow management, stock funding, and ensure liquidity for operational needs.

Financial Controls & Compliance: Implement and maintain strong internal financial controls, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, including VAT and HMRC requirements.

Audit & Taxation: Manage year-end accounts, audits, and corporate tax filings, liaising with external auditors and tax advisors.

Process Improvement: Identify and implement improvements to financial processes, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.

Leadership & Team Development: Manage, mentor, and develop the finance team to enhance performance and ensure operational excellence.

Stakeholder Management: Work closely with senior management, providing financial insights and strategic guidance.

Requirements

Industry Experience: Proven experience as a Financial Controller, Finance Manager, or senior accountant within the motor trade industry is highly preferred.

Qualifications: ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualified (or part-qualified with substantial relevant experience).

Technical Proficiency: Strong expertise in Xero, advanced Excel skills, and familiarity with Dealer Management Systems (DMS).

Leadership Ability: Experience managing a finance team, with a hands-on approach and the ability to develop staff.

Analytical Skills: Strong financial analysis and problem-solving abilities to drive business improvements.

Attention to Detail: High accuracy in financial reporting and compliance.

Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with senior management, auditors, and external stakeholders.

The Package

Salary: Up to £70,000 per annum (depending on experience).

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.

Career Growth: Opportunity to play a pivotal role in a fast-growing company with career progression potential.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Not Applicable

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Finance

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