Financial Controller (Fixed Term)

Panda Utilities Limited; Leeds; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utilities company in the United Kingdom is seeking a Financial Controller to oversee financial health during significant changes. The role involves leading the finance team, managing reporting, budgeting, and cash flow, while supporting strategic initiatives. Strong leadership and financial expertise are essential. This opportunity promises a dynamic environment committed to innovative practices and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in financial leadership roles, ideally as a Financial Controller.
• Strong understanding of financial regulations and compliance.
• Proven expertise in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.

Responsibilities

• Ensuring accurate and compliant financial reporting.
• Leading the budgeting and forecasting process.
• Managing cash flow and working capital.
• Overseeing financial analysis and identifying cost-saving opportunities.

Skills

Financial reporting

Budgeting

Cash flow management

Financial analysis

Leadership

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field

ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification

Tools

Financial software

MS Excel

Job description

About the Role

The Financial Controller role (Fixed Term) will ensure the financial health and stability of the organisation during a period of significant change. By leading the finance team and collaborating with senior management, the role drives financial excellence through accurate reporting, budgeting, and cash flow management.

Additionally, it plays a crucial part in supporting strategic initiatives, including business restructuring, ERP implementation, and cultural transformation, ultimately contributing to long-term sustainability and success.

Key Accountabilities

• Ensuring accurate and compliant financial reporting in line with accounting standards and regulations
• Leading the budgeting and forecasting process to support strategic decision-making
• Managing cash flow and working capital to maintain financial stability
• Overseeing financial analysis to identify cost‑saving opportunities and investment potential
• Implementing and maintaining internal controls and ensuring compliance with tax and regulatory requirements
• Leading and developing a high‑performing finance team
• Supporting strategic initiatives such as business restructuring, ERP implementation, and synergy savings

Areas of Responsibility

• Financial Reporting: Preparation, review, and analysis of financial statements
• Budgeting & Forecasting: Managing the budget process, tracking variances, and providing strategic insights
• Cash Flow Management: Ensuring liquidity and optimizing working capital
• Financial Analysis: Conducting ROI assessments and evaluating investment opportunities
• Compliance & Controls: Maintaining internal controls, managing audits, and ensuring tax compliance
• Team Leadership: Mentoring and developing the finance team
• Financial Strategy: Collaborating with senior management to drive financial and business strategy

Experience and Skills Required

• Extensive experience in financial leadership roles, ideally as a Financial Controller
• Strong understanding of financial regulations, accounting principles, and compliance requirements
• Proven expertise in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management
• Ability to conduct high‑level financial analysis to support strategic decision‑making
• Strong leadership skills with experience in managing and developing teams
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Proficiency in financial software and advanced MS Excel capabilities
• Experience in managing business transformation, ERP implementation, and cultural change initiatives

Qualifications and Knowledge Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field
• ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualification (essential)
• In‑depth knowledge of accounting standards, financial regulations, and compliance requirements
• Familiarity with financial systems, ERP software, and advanced financial modelling
• Strong understanding of corporate finance, tax laws, and internal controls

About Us

Join us on the journey…..

Over the past 30 years, Panda has continued to grow and acquire businesses that all share a very similar vision and set of values. We’re now a group of almost 3000 people, all contributing to that growth and success.

Whilst Panda is the parent company to numerous brands, we all share an ambitious vision for the future. Our primary goal is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our people and connected partners is front and centre. As a team, we’re safer together. We deliver our customers with a partnership approach to managing their resources responsibly. We constantly push the boundaries of innovation. What’s good today can be better tomorrow.

Panda is not just a company, it’s a resource recovery business. Over the past three decades we’ve grown and diversified significantly, we believe that great leadership is rooted in strong values. As leaders within this industry, we’re committed to shaping a better future for our friends, families and communities. Our philosophy remains unchanged, balancing customer satisfaction with environmentally sustainable practices. Exceptional customer service, and unwavering dedication to sustainability are the cornerstones of our business.

Our journey is dependent upon talented, passionate, and dedicated people that constantly strive and challenge each other for better outcomes.

Take the first step today and join us on the journey……….

Pandaaims to attract and retain a skilled and diverse workforce that best represents the talent available in the communities in which our assets are located and our employees reside. (DE&I Policy Statement)