Group Financial Controller / Director
About the OrganisationRobert Half are partnering with a high‑growth, private equity–backed Financial Services business is seeking an exceptional Group Financial Controller/Director to join its senior leadership team. The organisation is scaling rapidly through multiple strategic channels, including major national partnerships and newly launched embedded finance propositions. With continued investment, strong market momentum, and a reputation for innovation within the lending and asset finance sectors, the company is positioned for significant expansion over the next 24 months.
Operating at the heart of the UK SME market, the business provides flexible finance solutions that enable customers to invest, grow, and enhance productivity. It has been recognised for outstanding growth and innovation within Financial Services and continues to drive ambitious transformation programmes across technology, partnerships, and operations.This is an outstanding opportunity for a commercially minded, technically strong finance leader who wants to operate at the centre of decision‑making in a fast‑paced, change‑led environment.
The OpportunityThe Group Financial Controller/Director will lead core financial operations across Accounting, Payouts, and Business Partnering, currently overseeing a team of 12 with two direct reports. The role sits at the heart of the business—working closely with the CFO, Executive Committee, and wider SLT—and plays a critical part in driving performance, governance, and strategic planning.
This position offers unparalleled exposure to executive leadership, investor relations, and major commercial decision‑making. You will also play a pivotal role in delivering the organisation's transformation agenda, enabling new partnership launches, funding initiatives, and financial control enhancements.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Accounting & ControlOwn the month‑end close process and deliver accurate flash and final management accounts to the Board.Lead the preparation and first‑line review of monthly Board reporting packs.Oversee balance sheet controls, reconciliations, and attestation to maintain a robust financial control environment.Produce consolidated monthly balance sheet and cashflow statements for all Group entities, including variance analysis.Manage the external audit process and statutory accounts production.Deliver all regulatory reporting (FLA, FCA, ONS, etc.).Lead quarterly performance reporting to private equity stakeholders.Oversee VAT submissions and act as Accounting Lead for key partnerships and funder relationships.Work closely with Treasury/Funding teams on hedge accounting, covenant monitoring, and funder compliance.
Commercial Finance & Business PartneringDeliver annual budget cycles and quarterly reforecasts to Executive leadership.Build robust scenario modelling to support strategic decisions.Lead pricing framework development, including analytics on funding impacts.Drive cost control, cost‑centre analytics, and portfolio performance reporting in collaboration with Data teams.Provide commercial insight to guide strategic initiatives, partnerships, and new revenue opportunities.
Payroll OversightOversee monthly payroll and pension administration, ensuring timely and accurate processing.Maintain the relationship with third‑party payroll providers and VAT reviewers.
Origination & PayoutsLead the payouts function, including reconciliation and daily supplier/vendor payment processes.
Leadership & Team DevelopmentAct as an inspirational leader, developing and mentoring a high‑performing team.Define progression pathways, lead succession planning, and embed a culture of continuous improvement.Ensure finance is positioned as a proactive, engaged business partner across the organisation.
Role Requirements
EssentialFully qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW).Financial Services experience is mandatory.Strong technical accounting knowledge (IFRS / FRS102).Experience in group reporting, consolidations, and detailed cashflow preparation.Proven track record managing external audits and statutory accounts.Business planning, budgeting, and reforecasting experience.Demonstrable leadership experience within a complex finance environment.Robust understanding of payroll, PAYE, VAT and pension administration.Advanced MS Office skills, especially Excel.Ability to operate effectively in a fast‑paced, high‑change organisation.
DesirableExperience with SPVs, securitisation, hedge accounting, or complex funder structures.Understanding of warehousing facilities and associated operational processes.Exposure to Sage 200 or similar ERP systems.Experience preparing or reviewing regulatory returns.SQL familiarity.
Personal ProfileHighly commercial with a strong desire to influence business performance.Comfortable operating in a dynamic, fast‑evolving environment.Confident engaging with senior stakeholders and presenting at Board level.Strong organisational skills, exceptional attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.A collaborative, people‑centred leader who brings out the best in their team.Strong influencing and negotiation skills, with the ability to work effectively across functions and externally.