Fractional Financial Controller (Remote, UK‑based)

About the role

MarcoPolo Learning is seeking a hands‑on Fractional Financial Controller to lead finance operations across its UK and US entities on a part‑time basis (approximately 2 days per week). The role is remote with occasional in‑person meetings in London and reports directly to the executive team, providing strategic financial insight to support rapid SaaS growth.

Key responsibilities

• Own the finance function across the UK and US, covering accounting, tax, payroll and reporting.
• Run month‑end close, management accounts, consolidation and audit preparation.
• Partner with leadership on financial planning, analysis and scenario modelling.
• Maintain and improve finance workflows and automation (AP, AR, payroll, P2P, expense management).
• Oversee UK & US tax compliance, including VAT, PAYE, US sales tax and liaise with external advisors.
• Manage year‑end audits and ensure compliance with UK GAAP, IFRS and US GAAP (ASC 606).
• Support cash‑flow, working‑capital management and ERP optimisation.
• Provide financial insight to Operations, Sales and Product teams and support equity and M&A activities.

Required profile

• Qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or CPA) with 7+ years progressive finance experience.
• Hands‑on controller or fractional finance experience in a fast‑scaling SaaS/technology business, preferably post‑Series A/B.
• Proven ability to run and improve finance functions independently with minimal oversight.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP, IFRS and US GAAP (ASC 606).
• Experience in multi‑entity, multi‑currency environments (UK/US) and managing tax, audit, payroll and statutory compliance.

Required skills

• ACCA, ACA, CIMA, CPA certifications.
• Advanced Excel and ERP/P2P tools.
• Automation and data‑driven decision‑making.
• Understanding of SaaS financial metrics (ARR, deferred revenue, churn, LTV/CAC).
• Knowledge of UK & US tax compliance, audit processes and statutory reporting.

What we offer

• Competitive day rate on a fractional basis.
• Fully flexible remote working with a ~2‑day‑per‑week commitment.
• A collaborative, family‑friendly, mission‑driven environment.
• Opportunity to shape the finance function of a global education company at a key growth stage.