Financial Controller

This job is being advertised by S&D Trade Recruitment Limited who operate as an employment business. 

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Financial Controller to take ownership of our finance function and work closely with the Managing Director to support the continued growth of the business.

This is a varied role that combines strategic financial management with day-to-day operational responsibility. You will play a key part in driving commercial performance, maintaining strong financial controls, and ensuring the business remains compliant across all financial processes within a construction environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management

Develop and implement the company's financial strategy to support business growth.

Maintain robust financial controls, governance, and reporting procedures.

Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, including VAT, CIS, payroll, and corporation tax.

Liaise with external accountants, auditors, banking partners, insurers, and other professional advisers.

Budgeting & Reporting

Prepare annual budgets, financial forecasts, and long-term business plans.

Produce accurate monthly management accounts together with insightful financial analysis.

Provide financial information and recommendations to support commercial and operational decision-making.

Monitor business performance and identify opportunities to improve profitability.

Cash Flow & Commercial Performance

Manage company cash flow and working capital to ensure financial stability.

Oversee banking facilities and maintain strong relationships with financial institutions.

Identify financial risks and implement appropriate mitigation measures.

Manage applications and reporting relating to grants, CITB requirements, and any available funding opportunities.

Payroll & Business Systems

Oversee weekly and monthly payroll processes, ensuring compliance with all legislation.

Ensure CIS deductions, employee benefits, pensions, and P11Ds are processed accurately.

Take ownership of the finance system, including Sage, while coordinating with external IT providers where required.

Manage the company's insurance portfolio and annual renewals.

Leadership

Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team.

Promote a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

Build strong relationships across all departments and provide financial guidance to senior managers.

About You

To be successful in this role you will have:

A recognised accounting qualification such as ACCA, ACA or CIMA.

A payroll qualification such as CIPP (or equivalent) is desirable.

Previous experience within the construction sector.

Excellent knowledge of CIS, subcontractor payments, and construction accounting.

Strong understanding of project costing, margins, and cash flow management.

Experience producing management accounts and presenting financial information to senior leadership.

Strong IT skills, including Sage and Microsoft Office.

The ability to work independently while taking full ownership of the finance function.

Personal Qualities

We are looking for someone who is:

• Commercially aware with a practical approach to problem-solving.
• Confident communicating financial information to both finance and non-finance colleagues.
• Professional, organised, and able to perform well under pressure.
• A proactive individual who enjoys improving systems and processes.
• Comfortable operating as part of the senior leadership team and influencing business decisions.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Company pension (3% employer contribution, 5% employee contribution).
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• The opportunity to work across our offices in Carlisle, Salford and Glasgow.
• The chance to join a well-established business with an excellent reputation within the construction industry and play a key role in its future growth.