Financial Controller (12-Month Fixed Term Contract)
Country Creatures
Location: Hybrid across our sites in the South of England + home working
Contract: 12 months (maternity cover)
Reports to: Finance Director
About Country Creatures
Country Creatures is a small collection of characterful countryside inns and pubs known for warm hospitality, beautiful spaces, and thoughtful food and drink. Our sites include Double Red Duke Clanfield, Double Red Duke Bicester, The Mason's Arms, and The Wild Duck. Each location has its own identity, loyal following and strong local reputation, united by a shared focus on quality, comfort and genuine hospitality.
As we continue to grow, we're looking for a commercially minded Financial Controller to provide strong financial stewardship and hands-on leadership during a key period for the business.
The Role
This is a broad, operational Financial Controller role with real influence. You'll take ownership of the day-to-day finance function, ensure robust controls, and partner closely with site leaders and the senior team to support performance across the estate.
What You'll Be Responsible For
* Ownership of monthly management accounts and board reporting
* Cashflow management, forecasting and working capital oversight
* Leading budgeting and reforecast cycles with site GMs
* Margin analysis across food, beverage and rooms
* Stock, GP and labour cost control with operational teams
* Oversight of AP/AR, payroll interface and balance sheet integrity
* Improving controls, processes and finance visibility for sites
* Supporting year-end and external accountants
* Ad-hoc commercial analysis for projects and investments
What We're Looking For
* Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) or equivalent experience
* Background in hospitality, retail or multi-site operations preferred
* Confident producing management accounts end-to-end
* Commercial, pragmatic and comfortable working with operators
* Strong Excel and systems capability
* Calm, organised and happy to be hands-on
* Available for a 12-month fixed term contract
Why Join Us
* A values-led, people-first hospitality group
* Beautiful working environments across our inns
* Genuine influence and autonomy in the role
* Collaborative senior team and supportive culture
* Hybrid working with site connection
To apply, please send your CV and a short note on why this role appeals to you.
Country Creatures is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences.