Financial Controller

Our client is looking for a Financial Controller to become their first dedicated finance hire, working side-by-side with the CFO. This is a rare opportunity to build the finance function from the ground up in a lean, fast-moving environment. The Financial Controller will take full ownership of corporate accounting, regulatory compliance, and budgeting/forecasting, while also playing a central role in designing and implementing AI-driven tools and systems to automate manual finance and operational processes.This is a broad, high-impact, all-encompassing role suited to someone who wants to shape how finance operates as the company scales, not just maintain existing processes.Key ResponsibilitiesCorporate AccountingOwn the full accounting cycle, including month-end and year-end close, journal entries, reconciliations, and reportingPrepare accurate and timely financial statements in accordance with relevant accounting standardsManage accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll coordination, and cash flow monitoringMaintain and strengthen internal controls and accounting policiesRegulatory & ComplianceEnsure compliance with tax filings, statutory reporting, and other regulatory requirementsAct as the primary point of contact for auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodiesStay current on changes in accounting standards and regulatory requirements relevant to the businessBudgeting & ForecastingLead the annual budgeting process and ongoing rolling forecastsBuild and maintain financial models to support business planning and decision-makingDeliver variance analysis and management reporting to the CFO and leadership teamProvide financial insights to support strategic and operational decisionsSystems & AI ImplementationIdentify opportunities to automate manual finance and operational workflows using AI tools and modern finance systemsEvaluate, implement, and optimize finance software, AI tools, and process automation solutionsBuild scalable systems and processes that can support the company through its next stage of growthChampion a culture of continuous improvement and efficiency within the finance functionPartnership with the CFOAct as a true thought partner to the CFO across all finance mattersTake ownership of projects end-to-end with minimal oversightHelp establish finance policies, processes, and reporting cadences from scratchAbout YouQualified accountant (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CPA, or equivalent)3–5 years of relevant industry experience, ideally including some exposure to a lean or high-growth environmentStrong technical accounting knowledge combined with commercial and analytical thinkingAdvanced systems skills, with genuine enthusiasm for using AI and automation tools to improve finance processesComfortable operating with a high degree of autonomy and ownership in a small teamExcellent communication skills, with the ability to work closely and effectively with a CFO and senior stakeholdersHighly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable, with the ability to move seamlessly between hands-on execution and strategic thinkingA builder's mindset. Excited by the opportunity to shape a finance function rather than inherit a fully built one