Interim Financial Controller (Outside IR35)
£500-£600 per day | Bishops Stortford | Immediate Start | 3-6 Month Contract
Robert Half are partnering with a well-established automotive group in Bishops Stortford to appoint an accomplished Interim Financial Controller. Our client is one of the UK's most respected names in high-end vehicle repair and restoration, working closely with leading global automotive brands. As they continue to expand and integrate operations across the group, they require an experienced interim to provide stability, leadership, and improved financial discipline during this critical phase.
This assignment sits outside IR35 and requires someone who can operate confidently in a hands-on, fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Reporting & Control
Lead the monthly reporting cycle and ensure accurate, timely management accounts.
Drive the shift from cash-based reporting to a full accruals basis.
Oversee balance sheet integrity, including reconciliations, journals, intercompany activity, and supporting schedules.
Enhance internal controls, reporting timetables, and accounting processes across the business.
Ensure adherence to UK GAAP and group financial policies.
Prepare reporting outputs for group leadership and investor stakeholders.
Business Partnering & Insight
Collaborate directly with the Managing Director to interpret financial performance and support commercial decision-making.
Provide clear analysis on revenue mix, margin development, and cost base trends.
Contribute to the budgeting and forecasting cycles.
Cash & Working Capital
Produce short-term cash flow forecasts and oversee daily/weekly cash reporting.
Monitor working capital performance, including debtor management, supplier payment cycles, and stock control.
Systems & Process Improvement
Standardise financial processes across multiple sites.
Support integration activities as the business aligns with wider group frameworks.
Leadership & Operational Support
Provide guidance and management to the on-site finance team.
Offer continuity and structure during organisational change.
Assist the CFO/FD/FP&A team with ad hoc reporting, board packs, and investor information requests.
About You
A qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with strong technical grounding.
Proven experience in Financial Controller or senior finance leadership roles within an SME or mid-market organisation.
Background in automotive, manufacturing, or operationally intensive sectors beneficial.
Comfortable joining a fast-moving, private-equity-backed environment where rapid impact is expected.
Hands-on, detail-oriented, and capable of quickly identifying and implementing improvements.
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