Example job description: Financial Controller

Hiring a Financial Controller? Use our best-in-class job description

Stand out to finance control professionals looking for a new position with a tried-and-tested job description template. With our job description for a Financial Controller role, you can help your company stand out against competitors and ensure you attract the right talent for your business needs.

Using the expertise of our accounting recruiters, we have designed an editable template which outlines the key responsibilities and skills needed for a typical Financial Controller.

With a clear format that covers all the necessary information to attract a top finance controller, simply download a copy and edit to suit your exact requirements.

Fill out the form to access the example, and use the guidance included to tailor it to your position.

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Why a good job description is important for hiring a Financial Controller:

Attract qualified candidates

Outlining the unique demands of your role properly will attract applicants who are a better fit. Taking time to write a good job specification gives a positive impression to jobseekers, and will make the role more appealing to quality professionals.

A quicker hiring process

Communicating your role properly will save time by setting clear expectations for potential hires. If your job description only appeals to candidates with the right skills and experience for your role, your hiring process will be faster and more effective.

Find a fit for your team

Finding a good cultural match is just as important as finding someone with the right skills and experience. A job description is a way to give a clear impression of your company's values, working style and team culture.

Access our best-in-class Financial Controller job description

About the Financial Controller position

What are the main responsibilities of a Financial Controller?
A Financial Controller oversees all financial and accounting operations in an organisation, ensuring all financial transactions and reports are accurate, timely, and compliant with the current financial laws and regulations.

Their scope of work includes managing budgeting and forecasting processes, strategic financial planning, financial risk management, and producing internal and external financial reports.

Financial Controllers also:
- Support with the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures.
- Liaise with external auditors and regulatory authorities, ensuring the company's financial practices adhere to statutory regulations and standards.
- Provide strategic financial insights that guide decision-making processes, contributing to the organisation's overall financial strategy and growth.
To get a more detailed description of the role of a Financial Controller, download our job description template.
How much are Financial Controllers paid in the UK?

The salary for a Financial Controller can significantly vary based on several factors. These factors include the specific industry the company operates in, its geographical location, and the size and scale of the organisation.

For the current market rates for Financial Controllers across the UK, download the Robert Walters Salary Survey which covers salary ranges and contract rates.

This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of current salary ranges and contract rates for Financial Controllers across various regions and sectors in the UK.

By having this information at hand, you can create a competitive compensation package that will attract and retain the best finance professionals.

Remember, a competitive salary is an investment in attracting top-tier talent that can drive your company's financial success.
Does Robert Walters have a network of Financial Controller candidates?

Robert Walters has a vast network of highly qualified and experienced Financial Controllers who trust us to find their next opportunity.

Our specialist Accounting & Finance recruitment team, with their extensive industry knowledge and recruitment expertise, can connect you with the right candidates that meet your specific business needs.

We understand that every business is unique, and thus, we take a tailored approach to recruitment. Whether you are a multinational corporation or a small business, we offer bespoke talent solutions that match your specific requirements.

We are committed to providing you with the best-suited professionals that can bring value to your organisation and contribute to your financial success.

Reach out to our team today to learn more about how we can support your recruitment process.
Does the role in different sized companies?

The role of a Financial Controller can vary significantly depending on the size and structure of the company.

In larger corporations, a Financial Controller often acts as the right hand to the CFO, primarily overseeing the accounting department and sharing management duties with a treasurer. The focus in this role is less on hands-on accounting and more on supervising employees handling taxes, accounts, and payroll.

In smaller businesses, the lines between roles are often blurred. The Financial Controller may handle basic accounting tasks, collaborate closely with the CEO, manage relationships with banks, and even take on investor relations, combining the roles of an accountant, financial director, financial manager, and CFO.

Adapt our Financial Controller job specification template to reflect the needs of your finance function.
How is this role evolving in the current climate?

The hiring landscape for Financial Controllers has evolved significantly in recent years, reflecting changing market conditions, technological advancements, and shifts in corporate strategies.

In a climate of financial uncertainty, companies are increasingly reliant on the expertise of financial control professionals to ensure financial stability and manage risk. This has led to a surge in demand for Financial Controllers, making the competition for top-tier talent high.

Companies are seeking individuals with strategic, technological, and analytical skills beyond traditional reporting and compliance. The ability to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into financial strategies is an increasingly in-demand skill.

Strong Financial Controllers must be continuous learners, and in many businesses, they are also expected to function as strategic partners, contributing significantly to corporate strategy and business growth.

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