Financial Controller – Path to Group Finance Director

About the role

We are seeking an ambitious Financial Controller to join a leading engineering business in West Dorset. This permanent, full‑time position offers a clear succession plan to become Group Finance Director within the next three to five years.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a small finance team and produce monthly management accounts with insightful commentary.
• Prepare year‑end draft accounts, assemble working papers for auditors and address their queries.
• Conduct regular and ad‑hoc financial analysis for the CEO and senior management.
• Attend weekly management meetings and collaborate with senior leaders across the business.
• Oversee monthly payroll, verify weekly wages and calculate pension data for submission.
• Compile annual budgets, monitor variances and manage cash flow and credit control.
• Submit quarterly VAT returns and handle monthly PAYE/NI payments.
• Authorize fortnightly supplier payments and ensure accurate cash management.

Required profile

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with experience as a Financial Controller in an SME.
• Previous experience using Sage 50 and Sage Payroll is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of engineering operations is beneficial but not essential.

Required skills

• Sage 50
• Sage Payroll

What we offer

• Competitive salary range £80,000‑£90,000 per year, dependent on experience.
• Attractive benefits package including a senior management bonus scheme.
• Clear progression route to Group Finance Director within five years.