Group Financial Controller

Are you ready to take the lead in a dynamic and fast-growing Life Sciences company? SPT Labtech, a cutting-edge £90m turnover business backed by EQT private equity, is looking for an Group Financial Controller for a 15 month fixed term contract to join our thriving head office team.

About us:

Based in Melbourn, near Cambridge, UK, SPT Labtech makes products that transform the way scientists work. For nearly two decades, our expert scientists, engineers and business innovators have provided scientists with world-leading, innovative solutions for liquid handling, sample preparation, and sample management that help accelerate research and make a real difference to human health. We work collaboratively with our customers, building trusted relationships that enable us to deliver exceptional, personalized experiences designed for real-world challenges in the lab.

Want to be part of a team that’s making a difference to human health?

As Group Financial Controller you will lead its corporate finance function, playing a pivotal role in delivering ambitious growth goals.

The primary focus of the role is to deliver strong, fast and accurate reporting across the Group.  You will be a qualified ACA, most likely having trained with a Big Four firm, with a strong academic track record and appropriate post-qualification experience, preferably with experience of multi-national businesses, acquisitions and exposure to foreign currencies. 

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Line management of the Group Accountant and UK Finance Manager;
• Overseeing and reviewing all group consolidated reporting (monthly management accounts, annual financial statements), ensuring suitable compliance with the relevant reporting standards;
• Overseeing the implementation of formal, system-based reporting for our Holding companies
• Leading the annual, statutory audit process for the Group;
• Supporting and driving continuous improvements across the global finance function, providing technical guidance where necessary;
• Supporting the Group Tax Manager in monitoring the Group cash position, including reviewing the monthly RCF submissions and ensuring compliance with debt covenants;
• Business Partnering the Executive team, alongside the Head of FP&A, to provide relevant insight into the company’s performance, supporting in the preparation of review of budgets and forecasts, and supporting in the delivery of the company’s strategic goals and initiatives;
• Developing a robust financial control environment, ensuring that risks are adequately mitigated with appropriate controls and processes are constantly challenged;
• Approval of weekly UK payment runs and monthly UK payroll (including European payrolls); and
• Supporting on other, ad hoc projects

Requirements

• Qualified accountant, most likely Big Four trained ACA, with at least 5 years’ PQE;
• Experience working within a manufacturing organisation would be an advantage;
• Strong technical knowledge of statutory accounting (UK GAAP) and compliance, with experience of M&A and taxation (UK, and ideally US, tax compliance). Although not essential, experience in a private equity backed environment would be preferable;
• Experience of monthly group consolidations, including overseas trading entities with foreign currency exposure;
• A critical thinker, able to understand the underlying drivers of business performance and influence management through the presentation of financial data;
• Ability to communicate with people at every level, including presenting at board level;
• Experience of working in a multi-site or international business would be desirable;
• Strong IT and systems skills, in particular MS Excel, with experience of development and implementation of new business wide software systems; and
• Self-motivated, organised and capable of developing in the current role over time with the ambition and drive to develop.

Our commitment to you:

You’ll be working with talented professionals in a motivated and driven team.

We offer a competitive salary package and comprehensive, valued benefits, including private medical insurance, a generous pension plan, and an annual discretionary bonus. 

We embrace diversity and inclusivity, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical ability, or family status. We prioritise supporting our employees' diverse needs as we strive for excellence together.

If the above resonates with you, apply with an up-to-date CV and be a part of our journey to reshape the future of science.