Responsible to:  Head of Reporting – Europe

Department:  Finance

Location:    Bury, Gtr Manchester.  BL9 8RR

Role overview:

As the Financial Controller, you will play a key role in the Europe reporting team across financial reporting, controls & governance, external audits whilst supporting the Finance Transformation programme. This role requires excellent financial management skills, collaboration with cross-functional teams whilst ensuring sound financial decisions are made across the business.

You will work closely with the UK & ROI Reporting team, Group Reporting team, Internal Controls team, Europe Commercial Finance team, our external auditors (Deloitte) and the Finance Transformation team.

You will lead a team of 9 people (3 direct reports) and play an active role in supporting your team’s continuous professional development.

Key duties & responsibilities:

•            Leadership and Management:

o           Lead and manage the team, overseeing all aspects of financial reporting and   encouraging continuous improvements across the team.

•            Financial Reporting:

o           Develop processes and a team structure to delivery accurate results within the   group reporting deadlines.

•            Controls & Governance:

o           Play a key role in implementing the Group Internal Controls programme and   developing operational controls on a timely basis.

•            Balance Sheet Reconciliation:

o           Review current processes and implement plans to improve the Balance Sheet   Reconciliation process in line with the Group Internal Controls requirements.

•            Audit:

o           Work closely with the external audit teams to ensure that the audits are managed   and are on plan per the required timescales.

•            Collaboration with specialist Finance Teams:

o           Work closely with specialist Finance teams (Shared Service Centre, Distribution,   Digital, Property) to deliver a coherent Profit and Loss and Balance Sheet.

•            Budget and Forecast Management:

o           Work closely with the Commercial Finance team to understand performance vs   plan and provide insight to Budget and Forecast processes.

•            Team Culture and Development:

o           Embed a team culture aligned with the Group’s core values.

o           Support the continuous development of your team.

•            Financial Transformation:

o           Influence in the implementation of financial systems, processes, and controls to   improve efficiency and accuracy.

This role requires a blend of financial expertise, leadership, and effective communication to drive successful outcomes within the Reporting Finance team.

Skills/Experience/Knowledge required:

•            Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or Equivalent):

o            Possess a recognized accounting qualification with a minimum of 5 years of         post-  qualification experience in a senior commercial finance role.

•            Industry Expertise (Retail or Fashion):

o           Ideally, have experience in the retail or fashion industry.

•            Financial Acumen:

o           Strong knowledge of accounting principles, standards, and practices.

o           Proficiency in using financial software, systems, and tools.

•            Analytical and Communication Skills:

o           Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

o           Attention to detail and effective communication skills with your team, senior   management and Group departments

•            Leadership and Team Development:

o           Ability to lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing finance team.

•            Time Management and Resilience:

o           Comfortable working under pressure, meeting tight deadlines, and managing   multiple projects and priorities.

•            Passion for Sports Fashion:

o           Enthusiasm for the sports fashion industry and awareness of its trends.

•            Positive Attitude and Drive:

o           Exhibit positivity, enthusiasm, resilience, and a proactive approach to challenges.

These competencies will contribute to success in the role and drive impactful outcomes.

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