Financial Controller

Edinburgh, Midlothian
Hays
Financial Controller Vacancy – Up to 75k – Edinburgh

FINANCE CONTROLLER
ROLE SUMMARYAn organisation within the engineering and manufacturing sector is exploring the potential appointment of a Finance Controller to strengthen its UK finance function. This role is expected to play a key part in shaping financial performance, enhancing controls, and supporting strategic decision-making as the business continues to develop.Working closely with the Finance Director, this position would suit either an established Finance Controller seeking a broader and more impactful remit, or a high-performing Finance Manager ready to step into a more comprehensive, career-enhancing role.The successful individual would likely take ownership of core financial operations while contributing insight, challenge, and commercial perspective across the wider business.
ANTICIPATED RESPONSIBILITIESFinancial Leadership & Commercial Insight

• Provide ongoing financial insight and guidance to senior leadership and departmental heads
• Support decision-making through analysis of financial performance, trends, and variances
• Challenge and influence budget holders on performance and cost control
• Identify opportunities for efficiency, margin improvement, and cost optimisation

Planning, Budgeting & Forecasting

• Contribute to the preparation of annual budgets and longer-term financial planning
• Support the development of rolling forecasts and scenario planning
• Assist with financial evaluation of contracts, tenders, and commercial initiatives
• Help shape mid-term financial strategy

Financial Reporting & Operations

• Oversee production of monthly management accounts and KPI reporting
• Review and support preparation of statutory financial statements
• Maintain ownership of month-end and year-end processes
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting to internal and external stakeholders
• Develop and enhance reporting dashboards

Governance, Controls & Compliance

• Strengthen and maintain financial controls, policies, and procedures
• Oversee balance sheet integrity, reconciliations, and fixed asset accounting
• Provide oversight of CAPEX processes and approvals
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and internal standards
• Monitor areas such as stock, provisions, and expenses

Audit & External Reporting

• Support and potentially lead the annual audit process
• Liaise with auditors, tax advisers, and external stakeholders
• Assist in preparation of tax packs, statutory accounts, and R&D submissions
• Ensure audit readiness and robust supporting documentation

Working Capital & Cash Management

• Help manage cash flow, including rolling forecasts
• Oversee debtor and creditor processes and relationships
• Support supplier payment cycles and customer invoicing
• Contribute to VAT return preparation and submission
• Participate in payment authorisation processes

Team & Business Support

• Work collaboratively across departments to support operational goals
• Contribute to development of finance processes and systems
• Support, mentor, or help develop junior team members where required
• Participate in continuous improvement and systems enhancement projects

PROFILE – WHAT MAY BE REQUIREDThe organisation is likely to consider candidates with the following profile:

• Professionally qualified accountant (ACA or equivalent)
• Demonstrable experience within a Financial Controller or senior finance role
• Strong grounding in financial reporting, controls, and compliance
• Experience working within dynamic, operational environments
• Commercially aware with the ability to influence non-finance stakeholders
• Strong systems capability (ERP experience advantageous)
• Analytical, proactive, and solution-oriented approach
• Effective communication and leadership capability

OPPORTUNITYThis role presents a potential opportunity to gain broad exposure across financial operations in a growing and evolving organisation, with direct support from an experienced Finance Director. It is expected to offer the successful candidate the chance to influence financial strategy, develop leadership capability, and build a well-rounded platform for future progression.