Job Title: Financial Controller
Location: London, hybrid working 4 days in the office, 1 day remote e/w
Salary: up to £75k + bonus and benefits
Duration: 2 year Fixed Term Contract
Lead the Financial Close Out of a Major UK Rail Operation
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Financial Controller to lead the financial management and close out of one of the UK's largest train operating businesses as it transitions through the Government's renationalisation programme.
This is a high profile role within Group Finance. You will take ownership of financial reporting, statutory accounts, and contract close out activity over a defined two year period. The role requires strong technical accounting expertise, confident stakeholder management, and the ability to lead through a complex transition.
Key Responsibilities of the Financial Controller :
• Lead the financial planning and execution of the business wind down following cessation of operations
• Develop and manage the financial close out plan, including final settlements, cost run off, provisions, and timelines
• Identify and manage liabilities, accruals, and contingencies through to final close
• Deliver financial scenario modelling relating to contract termination outcomes
• Act as the lead finance contact for Department for Transport financial reporting during the transition period
• Prepare and submit all required financial returns, reconciliations, and close out documentation
• Support contract close out discussions with government stakeholders
• Respond to financial reviews and queries with clear analysis and supporting evidence
• Lead the production of management accounts throughout the transition period
• Take ownership of the statutory accounts and all related disclosures
• Manage accounting judgements and estimates associated with cessation of operations
• Act as the main contact for external auditors and ensure an efficient audit process through to sign off
• Maintain strong financial controls and governance during the transition period
• Ensure full compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements
• Deliver robust balance sheet control and final ledger close
• Identify and manage financial risks linked to contract termination and operational wind down
• Work closely with government bodies, auditors, and key suppliers
• Partner with Group Finance teams across reporting, planning, and finance systems
• Collaborate with legal, HR, and operational teams supporting the transition
• Provide clear financial insight to senior stakeholders during a complex change programme
What we are looking for:
• Fully qualified accountant, ACA, ACCA, or CIMA
• Strong background in financial reporting and management accounting
• Proven experience leading statutory accounts and external audit processes
• Experience operating in a regulated environment such as rail, transport, utilities, or the public sector
• Strong knowledge of financial controls, provisions, accruals, and contract accounting
• Confident engaging with senior stakeholders and external bodies
Experience within the transport sector or direct exposure to government financial reporting is advantageous. Experience supporting contract termination, operational wind down, or complex business transitions would also be beneficial.
To be considered for this Financial Controller opportunity, you must APPLY NOW, making sure to attach your up-to-date CV.
*Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial telephone interview. If selected from the shortlist, a formal interview process will then begin.
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