Group Financial Controller
Manchester, UK
Full‑time | Permanent
Salary £70-£75k plus benefits
Cognition is an ambitious, values‑driven consultancy group operating across the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific, with leading brands including Cognition and Begin Bright.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Group Financial Controller to play a pivotal role in shaping the financial and commercial success of our international business. Reporting to the CFO, this is a senior, hands‑on leadership role with responsibility for financial control, compliance, commercial insight, and performance improvement across the Group.
This role is ideal for a commercially astute finance leader who enjoys operating at both strategic and detailed levels in a fast‑paced, international environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead Group financial reporting, P&L management, balance sheet integrity, and IFRS compliance
* Own month‑end close, rolling forecasts, cashflow management, and FP&A
* Manage complex revenue recognition, including large‑scale government and consultancy contracts
* Lead external audit processes (EY) and Group tax compliance
* Provide commercial and pricing input into tenders and new business bids
* Drive performance improvement through analysis, insight, and financial leadership
* Lead and develop the finance team, fostering strong controls and continuous improvement
* Partner closely with the CFO, Leadership Team, consultants, and clients
Qualifications
* Qualified or degree‑educated in Finance, Accounting, or Business
* Strong background in financial and management accounting
* Experience operating across UK, Australian or NZ accounting/tax environments
* Advanced Excel skills with strong analytical and reporting capability
* Confident communicator with strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills
* Comfortable working in complex, fast‑moving, and international environments
* A proactive leader who combines attention to detail with commercial insight
Benefits
* A true Group role with international reach and strategic influence
* Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and shape business direction
* Supportive, values‑led culture with a strong growth trajectory
* Exposure to meaningful public sector and consultancy projects
Applications close Friday 8th May 2026 by 5pm. Interviews to be held week commencing 18th May. Please note - vacancies may close prior to the expiry date displayed, subject to the volume of applications received.
#J-18808-Ljbffr