Full job descriptionOur client is seeking a highly commercial, technically strong, and hands-on Group Financial Controller to lead the finance function of a fast-growing, private equity-backed data centre business. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for ensuring financial integrity, robust controls, timely reporting, and scalable financial processes while supporting the company’s ambitious growth strategy.
Working closely with the CFO & FD, executive leadership team, investors, and external advisors, the successful candidate will provide high-quality financial information that enables informed decision-making and supports value creation. The role is ideally suited to someone who thrives in a high-growth, fast-paced environment and enjoys building best-in-class finance capabilities.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Reporting*Lead the monthly, quarterly and annual financial close process.
*Produce timely and accurate consolidated management accounts.
*Prepare board packs and financial reporting for the executive team and private equity investors.
*Manage statutory reporting across all legal entities.
*Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards (IFRS or UK GAAP as applicable).
*Manage year-end audit processes and statutory accounts preparation.
*Oversee consolidation of domestic and international subsidiaries where applicable.
Financial Control & Governance*Develop and maintain a strong financial control environment.
*Own the company’s financial policies, procedures and governance framework.
*Ensure compliance with tax, VAT, payroll and regulatory obligations.
*Manage balance sheet integrity, reconciliations and cash controls.
*Drive continuous improvement in financial processes and internal controls.
*Lead risk management activities relating to finance operations.
Team Leadership*Lead, develop and mentor the finance team.
*Build a high-performing finance function capable of supporting continued growth.
*Establish clear objectives and performance standards.
*Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
Budgeting, Forecasting & Business Partnering*Support the CFO in annual budgeting and rolling forecasting processes.
*Provide financial analysis and insights to support commercial decision-making.
*Challenge assumptions and improve forecast accuracy.
*Partner with department leaders to improve financial performance and cost management.
Private Equity Reporting*Prepare monthly investor reporting packs and KPI dashboards.
*Support covenant reporting and lender requirements where applicable.
*Produce cash flow reporting and liquidity forecasts.
*Assist with value creation initiatives and performance tracking.
*Support refinancing, acquisitions, integrations and exit readiness activities.
Systems & Process Improvement*Drive automation and optimisation of finance processes.
*Lead ERP and finance systems enhancements.
*Improve reporting capability through business intelligence and data analytics.
*Ensure finance infrastructure can scale alongside business growth.
Treasury & Cash Management*Oversee cash flow forecasting and working capital management.
*Manage banking relationships and treasury activities.
*Monitor liquidity and funding requirements.
*Optimise cash conversion and balance sheet efficiency.
M&A and Corporate Activity*Support financial due diligence for acquisitions.
*Lead finance integration of acquired businesses.
*Assist with investment cases, financial modelling and strategic projects.
*Support future fundraising or exit processes.
Key Skills & ExperienceEssential*Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA).
*Significant post-qualification experience in a Group Financial Controller or Senior Financial Controller role.
*Experience within a private equity-backed, high-growth or technology-enabled business.
*Strong technical accounting knowledge.
*Experience producing consolidated group accounts.
*Proven track record managing audits and statutory reporting.
*Strong financial controls and governance experience.
*Advanced Excel and financial systems knowledge.
*Experience managing and developing finance teams.
*Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Desirable*Experience within a data centre, software or technology businesses.
*Previous Big Four or Top 10 accountancy background.
*Experience with acquisitions and post-merger integration.
*Exposure to international operations.
*ERP implementation or finance transformation experience.
*Experience using Power BI, Tableau or similar reporting tools.
Success MeasuresWithin the first 12-18 months, the successful candidate will:
*Deliver consistently accurate and timely monthly reporting.
*Strengthen the financial control environment and governance framework.
*Improve reporting quality and management insight.
*Enhance forecasting accuracy and cash flow visibility.
*Streamline finance processes through automation and improved systems.
*Build a high-performing finance team.
*Successfully support acquisitions and integration activities where applicable.
*Establish a finance function that is scalable and exit-ready.