Financial Controller

Location: Dorchester, Dorset

Salary: £50,000-£60,000 DOE

Job Type: Permanent Full Time

Eligibility:UK-based applicants only

A growing engineering and technology business is seeking an experienced Financial Controller to lead its finance function during an exciting period of expansion. This role offers full responsibility for financial management, reporting, and strategic guidance, working closely with senior leadership to support ongoing business growth.

The successful candidate will bring strong technical expertise, excellent communication skills, and the ability to oversee a small finance team while driving continuous improvement across the function.

As Financial Controller, you will take ownership of the company's day-to-day and strategic financial activities. Your role will include operational finance management, financial planning, compliance, and acting as a key advisor to the leadership team.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Managing and overseeing the finance team and wider finance function
• Preparing and presenting accurate financial reports to senior leadership
• Overseeing monthly and annual payroll processes
• Managing work-in-progress and long-term contract accounting
• Reviewing and submitting quarterly VAT returns
• Ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements
• Leading budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling activities
• Supporting business planning through variance analysis and performance reviews
• Managing development cost portfolios and conducting impairment assessments
• Liaising with internal teams and external stakeholders as required

Essential:

• Fully qualified accountant (ACCA / ACA / CIMA)
• Ideally 10+ years' experience in a finance-focused role
• Strong understanding of WIP and long-term contract accounting
• Experience managing payroll processes
• Confident with statutory submissions and compliance
• Proficient in Sage 50 Accounts and Sage Payroll
• Skilled in VAT review and quarterly submissions
• Advanced Excel user; experienced with MS Office
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Desirable:

• Background in manufacturing, engineering, or high-growth environments
• Experience within accountancy practice
• Experience managing development cost portfolios and impairment reviews