The Group Financial Controller oversees multiple entities within a business, providing strategic oversight, leadership and consolidated financial reporting. According to the Robert Half Salary Guide, Group Financial Controllers are highly valued for their ability to manage complex accounting environments, regulatory requirements and strategic initiatives across various subsidiaries.They ensure group-wide accuracy in financial statements, regulatory compliance and provide critical insights for strategic decision-making. As organisations grow through acquisitions and expansions, this role becomes essential for maintaining financial integrity and facilitating growth. Demand for Group Financial Controllers is particularly strong in business services, manufacturing and healthcare, where the ability to manage complexity and deliver reliable insights is key to supporting sustainable growth.Key responsibilitiesOversee consolidated financial reporting and ensure compliance with UK GAAP, US GAAP or IFRSManage group budgeting, forecasting, and reporting cyclesLead internal controls, risk management, and group auditsDevelop and mentor finance teams across multiple locations or subsidiariesAdvise executive leadership on strategic financial decisionsBackground and experienceACA, ACCA or CIMA qualifiedProven experience in group consolidation and financial managementStrong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skillsProficient with consolidation and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Hyperion, Microsoft Dynamics 365)Previous roles: Financial Controller, Senior Finance Manager or Head of FinanceTeam structureGroup Financial Controllers typically manage multiple finance teams and senior direct reports, such as:Financial Controllers at subsidiary levelsSenior Management/Financial AccountantsGroup AP/AR and payroll functionsRegional Finance Managers and AnalystsThey often coordinate closely with local finance teams, ensuring alignment and consistency across the group.What makes the role rewarding?The Group Financial Controller role offers high responsibility, visibility and strategic impact:Influence over business-wide strategy and performanceVisibility with senior executives and boardsOpportunity to lead and develop diverse finance teamsStrong earning potential with clear progression paths to Group CFO or executive leadership rolesExposure to varied business environments through subsidiary managementExplore more about upcoming finance trends.How industry affects the roleGroup Financial Controller responsibilities vary significantly by sector:Financial Services: Emphasis on complex regulatory compliance and risk management.Technology: Managing rapid growth, investment rounds, and global scaling.Manufacturing: Focus on consolidated inventory management, cost controls, and operational efficiencies.Retail and FMCG: Group-level oversight of supply chains, margins, and multi-region performance.Non-Profit and Education: Management of consolidated funding streams and reporting transparency.Role differences by company sizeMid-sized groups: Direct oversight of fewer subsidiaries, hands-on consolidation tasks.Large multinational groups: Strategic leadership with extensive delegation and cross-border coordination.Sought-after benefitsHighly sought-after perks include:Flexible working arrangementsComprehensive parental leaveWellness programsFinancial planning resourcesInternational career opportunitiesExecutive coachingThese perks attract top talent in a competitive finance market.Career progressionTypical career advancements include:Group CFOExecutive DirectorChief Operating Officer (COO)CEO (less common but viable with significant strategic experience)Learn more about finance career progression.
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