Financial Controller (12‑Month Maternity Cover) - Hybrid | Bedford
A leading international organisation is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to join on a 12‑month fixed‑term contract to cover maternity leave. This role offers the opportunity to take full ownership of statutory reporting, tax compliance and month‑end processes across two UK entities, while working closely with senior leadership and group finance teams.
OPEN TO FIRST/SECOND TIME MOVERS!
⭐ The Opportunity
This position is ideal for a qualified accountant (ACA preferred) with a strong technical background, excellent statutory reporting experience and confidence operating within medium to large organisations. You'll play a key role in ensuring financial accuracy, compliance and robust reporting, while supporting budgeting cycles and ad‑hoc finance projects.
The role is hybrid, with 1-2 days per week required in the Bedford office following handover.
🔍 Key Responsibilities
Lead on VAT and Corporation Tax compliance, submissions and calculations
Prepare and support the monthly management accounts across two UK entities
Draft statutory annual financial statements and manage audit requirements
Support the annual budget process and interim forecasting
Assist with US GAAP to IFRS transition and complex accounting treatments
Work closely with internal stakeholders, senior management and shared service teams
Contribute to ad‑hoc finance projects as required
📌 Essential Requirements
Qualified Accountant (ACA strongly preferred; practice/audit background)
SAP highly advantageous - Otherwise large ERP system experience
Strong exposure to medium-large company accounts
Proven experience in VAT and Corporation Tax ownership
Skilled in statutory reporting, ideally with IRIS
Confident managing month‑end close processes
Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex financial data clearly
Self‑motivated, organised and comfortable working autonomously within a small team
➕ Desirable
Knowledge of defined benefit pension accounting
💼 Package
Salary up to £82,000 (DOE)
10% end‑of‑contract performance bonus
6% employer pension contribution
Life assurance
26 days holiday + bank holidays
Hybrid working (1-2 days per week in Bedford office)
Interested? Please reach out:
About Us
We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.
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