Financial Controller

KennedyPearce are hiring a Financial Controller role based in Epping in Essex. This is an SME distribution company and we're looking for a hands-on, detail-oriented Financial Controller. This role will be 5 days in the office. This is a broad and varied role, ideal for someone with a proactive mindset, a high level of accuracy, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. As Financial Controller you will play a key role in the company's financial assets, ensuring strong financial controls, and delivering high-quality management information. You'll lead on core finance tasks such as ledger management, reporting, payroll, VAT, cash flow, and audit preparation, while also identifying opportunities for efficiencies across systems and processes.

Key Responsibilities of the Financial Controller:

Financial Reporting:

• Manage and maintain all accounting ledgers
• Prepare, approve, and post journal entries
• Ensure accurate month-end close processes
• Produce monthly management accounts and reports to agreed deadlines
• Calculate and verify sales gross margin
• Oversee and approve BACS payment runs
• Review sales ledger balances and credit limits
• Prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns
• Produce year-end audit schedules and draft financial statements
• Monitor daily cash levels and maintain cashflow forecasts
• Manage weekly and monthly payroll processes

Stock & Shipping

• Verify internal pricing and buyer cost calculations
• Oversee stock reporting accuracy and cost calculations
• Coordinate stock takes and reconcile perpetual inventory
• Review shipping schedules and manage environmental reporting

IT & Systems

• Support IT infrastructure with minimal downtime
• Identify opportunities for systems improvement and reporting automation

Tax & Compliance

• Manage corporation tax payments and assist with tax returns
• Prepare tax schedules for year-end reviews

Property Investment Support

• Manage payments, transfers, and monthly cash calls
• Maintain investment records and loan schedules

Other Duties

• Maintain confidentiality and good housekeeping within the finance function
• Support the business owner and senior leadership as needed
• Provide cover and assistance across the finance team when required
• Complete ad hoc finance tasks as they arise

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, or CIMA)
• Proven experience in a similar finance role
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and practices