Group Financial Controller

Group Financial Controller – Manchester, United Kingdom Clarity, a global, multi award‑winning Business Travel Company with over 800 experts, is seeking a Group Financial Controller to bring structure, insight, and strategic oversight to our financial operations. This role is critical in ensuring that our financial systems are robust, our reporting is accurate, and our leadership team is empowered with the data they need to make informed decisions. Role Purpose As our business continues to grow and evolve, the Group Financial Controller will ensure compliance, drive efficiency, and support long‑term planning. This is more than a numbers role – it is about creating clarity, enabling growth, and safeguarding our future. Operational Key Tasks Financial Reporting & Compliance – support the Group CFO with monthly board reporting Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, tax filings, and regulatory obligations Liaise with external auditors and manage the audit process from planning to completion Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis – lead the annual budgeting process and rolling forecasts, provide variance analysis and commentary Develop financial models to evaluate business performance and investment opportunities Monitor and manage cash flow to ensure the business meets its financial obligations Oversee banking relationships and optimise working capital Implement strategies to manage financial risk Design, implement, and maintain robust internal controls and financial procedures Identify opportunities to streamline processes and improve efficiency through automation and system enhancements Ensure financial systems are fit for purpose and scalable with business growth Support the development of the Group finance team – set objectives, conduct performance reviews, and support professional development Promote cross‑functional collaboration and act as a finance business partner across departments Work closely with the CFO and senior leadership to shape financial strategy and support long‑term planning People Management Consider PDPs and set expectations on appraisals and 121s (All employees should have at least 2 reviews each year, at mid and end of year. 121s should be regular as required based on the individual weekly, biweekly or monthly as a minimum) Manage, support and coach individual and team performance Maximise individual and team results by increasing productivity and improving overall performance Encourage a customer‑focused working environment with clear responsibilities and expectations for team members Hold regular team talks to keep them informed about performance against targets and key business issues Essential Experience Professional Qualification: ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent Post‑Qualification Experience: Minimum 5 years in a senior finance role, ideally including experience as a Financial Controller or Finance Manager Industry Exposure: Experience in the travel industry highly desirable Audit & Compliance: Proven track record managing audits and ensuring compliance with UK GAAP/IFRS and tax regulations Team Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor and develop finance teams Systems & Tools: Hands‑on experience with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel skills Key Skills Technical Accounting Expertise: Deep understanding of financial reporting, consolidation and statutory compliance Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to interpret financial data and provide actionable insights Commercial Acumen: Ability to connect financial performance with business strategy and operations Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to non‑finance stakeholders Desirable Extras Experience with FP&A tools or business intelligence platforms (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) Exposure to M&A, fundraising or investor reporting Knowledge of ESG reporting or sustainability finance practices Employment Details Seniority level: Executive Employment type: Contract Job function: Finance Equal Opportunity Statement Clarity Travel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr