Financial Controller

Braintree, Essex
Intros

TOAST is a proudly independent British coffee chain. With locations in Braintree, Chelmsford, Witham, Colchester, and Sudbury, we offer more than just great coffee. Our delicious toasties and indulgent milkshakes are also customer favourites. We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, supporting our local communities, and caring for the environment.

With ambitious plans for expansion in the coming years, TOAST is looking for a commercially astute and hands-on Financial Controller to join our leadership team. This pivotal role will help steer the financial direction of the business, ensuring we scale sustainably while maintaining profitability and operational efficiency across all sites.

Role Overview:

This is a part-time position (20 hours per week) with flexible working hours. The role can be performed remotely for the most part, but will require in-person attendance at up to three business meetings per month, and timely preparation of payroll in advance of each payday. The ideal candidate will be a proactive self-starter who thrives in a growing, multi-site environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Fully manage day-to-day financial operations of the business
• Prepare monthly management accounts, cash flow forecasts, and year-end statutory accounts
• Deliver store-level financial performance reports and variance analysis
• Identify inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities across the business
• Process and oversee payroll accurately and in advance of payday each month
• Ensure compliance with VAT, tax, and other regulatory requirements
• Produce financial reports and insights to support strategic decisions
• Manage budgeting and forecasting cycles
• Negotiate and manage contracts for utilities and key suppliers
• Optimise use of QuickBooks to support accurate, real-time reporting
• Liaise with external accountants and auditors

Requirements:

• Proven experience as a Financial Controller or Finance Manager
• Proficiency in QuickBooks is essential
• Strong understanding of payroll, budgeting, and financial compliance
• Experience in retail, hospitality, or multi-site businesses preferred
• Excellent analytical and reporting skills
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present financial data clearly to non-finance stakeholders
• Highly organised, self-motivated, and able to manage priorities independently
• A collaborative mindset, comfortable contributing at both strategic and operational levels

Why This Job?

• Work directly with the company owner: You’ll have a direct line to leadership, making your voice heard and your impact felt.
• Shape the future of the company: Play a key role in defining the direction of the business and influence its growth and success.
• Operate with freedom and creativity: Enjoy a role with fewer boundaries, where you can bring your ideas to life design, present, and implement them, and see your contributions celebrated.
• Be part of something from the ground up: While some may already see TOAST as a success, we re just getting started. This is your chance to make a lasting impact during a pivotal time.