Financial Controller in Geislingen an der Steige

This role will require the Finance Controller to be both hands-on and strategic as will be accountable for the financial health and wellbeing of the business and its multi-branch network in Germany. Responsibilities will include monthly and annual financial reports; cash flow management; key variance analysis; budgeting and forecasting; analysis of sales and inventory, cost of goods sold, overheads, production variances; a range of broad reporting requirements, cost control, and financial management tasks.

Core Responsibilities

• In conjunction with the accounting team, prepare cash flow forecasts monthly, and make appropriate recommendations.
• In conjunction with the accounting team prepare monthly: Debtors/creditors report, profit & loss report, cashflow forecasts, balance sheet, control account reconciliations, financial/operational variance reports and analysis, additional reports, documentation and data as requested and make appropriate recommendations.
• Develop and maintain production costing systems and procedures and assist with the development of production and inventory controls.
• Liaise with the relevant department heads to develop and maintain efficient reporting and data gathering systems for financial and production requirements.
• Recommend upgrades and efficient procedures and usage requirements for the ERP system, and project manage IT and technology projects and support for local users.
• Finance lead for scoping and implementation of new group-wide ERP system into Bolab subsidiary.
• Oversee:
• Credit and payments commensurate with cash flow.
• Banking and bank statements
• Preparation and reconciliation of tax reporting
• Payroll, payroll tax and maintenance of all payroll records
• Statutory employee benefits
• Maintenance of all staff records
• System developments of all computerized data and the development of appropriate control systems such as cash control, stock control, production control etc. in conjunction with relevant Department Heads.
• Maintenance of asset register and assisting with the bi-annual audit processes.
• Ensure deadlines are met for weekly/monthly/quarterly reports as required by the company and/or statutory bodies.
• Control any rebates, discounts, contributions made to customers.
• Review and control of Long-Term Contract accounting and reporting.
• Involvement in pricing and bid preparation.
• Provide financial guidance for commercial issues surrounding new and existing commercial proposals (e.g. assessment of customer profitability, etc.).
• Provide financial guidance to the operational network and ensure operations are performing at optimum from a financial management perspective.
• Involvement in Contract Review process.
• Development and training of direct reports to ensure their effectiveness is maximised and develops with the company and adherence to company and group policies and procedures.
• Ensure that all administrative processes adhere to the financial control standards.
• Internal and external audit assistance and co-ordination.
• Assist with the preparation of Group and Local Statutory audits.
• Ensure German subsidiaries comply with their obligations under both German and UK law.
• To always act and work within legal and ethical standards and company policies.

What are we looking for?

• University degree in Business Administration or Economics or equivalent experience
• Minimum 6 years' experience in controlling, finance or accounting in light manufacturing/assembly/service
• Actual and standard costing experience
• Strong integrated ERP systems experience/knowledge
• Management accounting experience preparing full P&L result for manufacturing and sales distribution
• Strong understanding of financial principles, accounting standards (IFRS and/or German GAAP), and financial analysis
• Very good knowledge of MS Office, particularly Excel
• Ability to analyse financial data, identify trends, and draw meaningful conclusions. Proficiency in financial modelling and forecasting is highly desirable
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial analysis and reporting
• Fluent in English and German (written and spoken)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with colleagues and present financial information to non-financial stakeholders
• Ability to identify and resolve financial issues or discrepancies in a timely manner
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively
• High ethical standards and the ability to handle confidential financial information with discretion
• Willingness to learn and adapt to changing financial regulations, technologies, and business needs