Group Consolidation Controller

Virtuo Executive has been retained by a £200m revenue business with full listing on the London Stock Exchange to manage the search for a Group Consolidation Controller. Regarded as a leading product innovator within its market, the entrepreneurial spirit remains, providing a fast-paced, fluid environment in which to work.

Although an individual contributor role, it is positioned at a senior level reporting directly into the Group CFO. It requires significant technical competency and experience gained within an international Group finance position. In addition to specific Cognos Controller system expertise, the ability to drive system and process optimisation is paramount.

The Group Head office is moving to a modern office within a central-Surrey location with excellent transport links (25 minutes from Clapham Junction).

The role

• Overall responsibility for the Group consolidation process and the preparation of the notes to the Group consolidated accounts.
• Ensure that the Group consolidation is delivered timely and accurately.
• Prepare the notes to the financial statements at half year and year end.
• Maintenance of the group reporting schedules and the Cognos reporting system.
• Proactively identify and make recommendations to improve the processes and the systems as well as take ownership of the delivery of improvements.
• Review of the consolidation packages and liaison with financial controllers for all overseas subsidiaries to ensure quality and accuracy.   
• To provide input on technical accounting matters and support the group companies in solving complex accounting challenges.
• External auditor liaison.

The Candidate

• Significant post-qualified (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) experience across reporting, consolidation and controllership, gained within a senior Group finance position for an international firm.
• Cognos Controller consolidation system expertise.
• IFRS technical proficiency and ability to apply technical accounting practice to commercial situations.
• A positive communication style that quickly gains credibility with senior employees.
• An efficient and proactive approach to problem solving and engagement across subsidiary businesses and group functions.
• PLC experience would be preferred but not essential.