Financial Controller - 12 Months Fixed Term Contract
We are seeking a technically astute Financial Controller to partner with our leadership team, strengthen financial discipline, and help scale the business sustainably. This is a pivotal, hands-on leadership role in a dynamic technology environment.
As Financial Controller, you will report directly to the Head of Finance and take ownership of all core accounting, reporting, compliance and financial control activities within a growing SME structure.
This role goes beyond pure compliance. You will provide actionable commercial insights to drive strategic decision-making, improve cash flow, support potential fundraising or investment activity, and help leadership navigate sector-specific complexities, including:
* SaaS/subscription and multi-element revenue recognition
* Project-based costing
* R&D tax credits and innovation incentives
* Working capital optimisation in a scaling tech business
You will manage a small finance team (1–4 direct/indirect reports) while remaining actively involved in day-to-day operations.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the full financial close process (monthly, quarterly, yearly)
* Prepare accurate management accounts, statutory accounts and board-level reporting packs in line with UK GAAP / FRS 102
* Own balance sheet reconciliations and maintain strong financial controls
* Oversee revenue recognition across SaaS, licence, support and implementation revenue streams
* Manage cash flow forecasting and optimise working capital
* Identify, claim and maximise R&D tax credits, Patent Box and other SME tax incentives
* Maintain robust internal controls, policies and procedures aligned with growth
* Lead compliance across VAT, corporation tax, PAYE/NIC and Companies House filings
* Act as principal contact for external accountants, auditors and HMRC
* Oversee AP/AR processes and credit control
* Support equity/debt fundraising activities including financial modelling, investor packs and due diligence
* Mentor and develop junior finance team members; build scalable finance processes ready for future growth
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Essential
* ACCA / ACA / CIMA qualified (or equivalent) with strong post-qualification experience
* Proven experience managing a small finance team and working with external stakeholders
* Strong understanding of UK GAAP / FRS 102 and UK tax fundamentals (corporation tax, VAT, R&D relief)
* Advanced Excel modelling skills
* Experience in an SME environment, ideally within IT / technology
* Confident communicator, comfortable presenting to non-finance senior stakeholders
Desirable
* Experience with NetSuite ERP
* Experience within SaaS, subscription or project-based revenue environments
* Exposure to fundraising or investment processes
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Location
Thatcham, Berkshire
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Department
Finance
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Employment Type
Full-Time
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Minimum Experience
Experienced
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