Strategic No.2 Finance Leadership Role – Multi‑Site, Multi‑Entity Wholesale, Retail & Distribution Business Hays Senior Finance is working in partnership with a well-established wholesale, retail and distribution organisation to appoint a Financial Controller to a newly enhanced senior leadership position. Reporting directly to the Finance Director, this role represents the Number 2 position within Finance, offering significant exposure at executive level and the opportunity to influence strategic decision-making across a multi-site, multi-entity operation. The opportunity This is a senior Financial Controller role combining strong technical controllership with commercial and strategic partnering. The successful applicant will play a key role in strengthening financial governance, improving insight and supporting the continued development and scalability of the business. The role is well suited to an experienced, qualified finance leader from a wholesale, retail, distribution, manufacturing or similar fast-paced, high volume environment. And someone who is comfortable operating at both a strategic and hands-on level. Key Responsibilities Lead financial control and reporting across multiple trading entities and sites Produce timely, accurate monthly management accounts, group reporting and analysis Own balance sheet integrity, cash flow forecasting and working capital management Lead statutory accounts preparation and manage the year-end audit process Act as a key business partner to the FD, executive team and senior operational leaders Provide commercial insight into margin, pricing, stock, logistics and cost performance Support strategic initiatives including growth, systems improvement, integration and change Ensure consistent financial processes, controls and governance across the group Lead, develop and mentor a high-performing finance team Drive continuous improvement across finance systems, reporting and processes Essential criteria Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) Proven experience operating at Financial Controller or Senior Finance Manager level Background within wholesale, retail, distribution, FMCG or supply-chain-led businesses Demonstrable experience managing multi-site and multi-entity environments Strong technical accounting, reporting and audit experience Commercially focused with the ability to influence at executive and board level Experience partnering with operational leaders within complex, fast-paced organisations Comfortable balancing strategic leadership with hands-on delivery What’s on Offer Salary up to £90,000 depending on experience benefits, car, bonus, healthcare, pension etc Hybrid working: 4 days on-site, 1 day remote True No.2 finance role with executive exposure Opportunity to shape and influence finance within a growing, operationally complex business Apply Now To apply for this Financial Controller role, please submit your CV via the link below.For a confidential discussion about the position, the business or the wider market, please contact Karly Clark - Hays Senior Finance, partnering exclusively on this appointment. All applications and conversations will be treated in strict confidence. 4773349