Financial controller - FMCG, Beauty Wellness - with previous UK experience

Location: London or Dubai
Reporting to: Head of Finance
Direct Reports: 2 Accounts Assistants

Role Overview

The Financial Controller will be responsible for managing and overseeing the Group’s accounting and financial operations, ensuring robust accounting processes, strong financial control, accurate reporting, and full regulatory compliance.

The role combines hands-on financial management with strategic oversight, supporting business growth, operational efficiency, and sound corporate governance across the Group.

Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Reporting & Control

• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes
• Prepare accurate and timely management accounts and board reporting packs
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards (UK GAAP and/or IFRS, as applicable)
• Maintain and strengthen internal controls and the financial governance framework
• Oversee balance sheet reconciliations and ensure the integrity and accuracy of financial data

2. Cash & Treasury Management

• Oversee banking relationships across the Group
• Manage and control payment runs in line with Group processes and approval frameworks
• Monitor company-wide subscriptions and recurring operational costs
• Support cash flow visibility and short-term liquidity planning

3. Payroll & Personnel Cost Management

• Oversee the monthly payroll process via Iris Staffology
• Prepare and upload payroll journals into SAP
• Manage personnel cost provisions (e.g. bonuses and accruals)
• Liaise with the Head of Finance and Chief of Staff regarding monthly payroll updates and changes
• Ensure timely PAYE submissions and payments
• Oversee the Bright HR holiday and absence management system

4. Intercompany Accounting

• Manage monthly recharges between subsidiaries and the parent company
• Perform reconciliations of all intercompany balances (loans, AR, AP)
• Oversee the offsetting and settlement of intercompany positions
• Ensure intercompany processes are timely, accurate, and properly documented

5. Compliance & Audit

• Lead the preparation of statutory accounts and coordinate the external audit process
• Oversee tax compliance (corporate tax, VAT, payroll taxes, as applicable)
• Ensure timely statutory filings and reporting obligations (e.g. Companies House)
• Maintain compliance with corporate governance and regulatory requirements

6. Administration & Corporate Oversight

• Oversee core administrative and office management functions to ensure smooth day-to-day operations
• Manage relationships with external vendors and service providers (e.g. insurance, IT, facilities, office services)
• Oversee contract administration and maintain key corporate documentation
• Coordinate company insurance policies and renewals
• Support onboarding and offboarding processes in collaboration with HR and Operations

7. Team & Stakeholder Management

• Manage and develop two Accounts Assistants
• Act as a key finance business partner to department heads
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, HR, and Commercial teams
• Support investor and board reporting requirements

8. Systems & Process Improvement

• Maintain and optimise financial systems (SAP, Chart of Accounts, departmental codes)
• Drive automation and continuous improvement initiatives within Finance
• Ensure data integrity and consistency across finance platforms

9. Candidate Profile

• Minimum 10 years of Finance & Accounting experience in the UK (UK-based experience is mandatory)
• Strong understanding of UK financial regulations and reporting standards
• Proven experience in financial management, reporting, and compliance
• Experience working within international or multinational organisations
• Strong analytical mindset and attention to detail
• Willingness to relocate to or already based in Dubai

Mandatory Qualification

• CIMA qualified

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From AED250,000.00 per year

Application Question(s):

• Are you in Dubai? How many years have you been working in Dubai? Please explain
• Do you hold a valid Emirates ID? We will ask you to show us a proof during your first interview
• Are you currently employed? If yes what is your notice period?
• How many years have you worked in the UK in a Finance or Accounting role? Please explain.
• How many years of Accounting & Finance experience do you have in the UK? (Minimum 10 years – UK-based experience is mandatory.)
• Can you please list all the digital platforms you are proficient with?
• Do you hold a CIMA qualification? If yes, please specify your qualification level and the dats yiou have achieved it
• What is your current and your desired salary? Please explain

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• inter-company accounting: 10 years (Preferred)
• UK payroll & tax compliance: 10 years (Preferred)
• team & process improvement: 10 years (Preferred)
• Financial accounting closure: 10 years (Preferred)

Work Location: Remote