Financial Controller

About Garden Trends Ltd

Garden Trends is a rapidly expanding multi-channel retailer based in Watlington, Oxfordshire, focused on garden furniture, barbecues, leisure products, and seasonal ranges including Christmas. Since its establishment in 2014, the company has exhibited remarkable growth both online and through retail outlets. The business fosters an entrepreneurial culture emphasizing accountability, teamwork, and ongoing enhancement.

Role Overview

We are hiring a seasoned Finance Controller to lead and manage our finance operations, providing strategic financial insights to aid decision-making and company growth. This permanent, full-time role reports directly to the Managing Director and blends hands-on operational finance responsibilities with commercial business partnering within a dynamic SME setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily financial functions including the preparation of monthly management accounts and periodic financial reports.
• Ensure accuracy of financial records, reconcile balance sheets, and supervise sales, purchase ledgers and bank reconciliations.
• Lead annual budgeting, ongoing cash flow forecasting, and comprehensive financial projections.
• Monitor business results against budgets, conduct profitability and margin analysis, and develop key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Manage company cash flow, working capital, debtor and creditor procedures, including stock valuation and inventory reports.
• Guarantee compliance with statutory and financial reporting necessities, preparing and submitting necessary HMRC returns.
• Coordinate with external auditors and accountants to facilitate audits and maintain strong financial controls and risk management.
• Drive process improvements and automation within finance and related systems and participate in wider business projects involving IT and operations.
• Lead and nurture the finance team, instilling a culture of accountability, accuracy, and progressive enhancement.
• Collaborate with department managers and the Managing Director to support various business functions and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications and Experience

• ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualification, or equivalent experience demonstrating senior finance leadership.
• Proven track record in a Financial Controller, Finance Manager, or Senior Management Accountant role.
• Expertise in management accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Experience managing compliance, controls, and using accounting platforms such as Sage Accounts.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and strong analytical capabilities.
• Excellent communication skills with experience engaging multiple stakeholders and working autonomously within a fast-growing SME.

Preferred Attributes

• Retail, e-commerce, or consumer products sector experience, particularly in home and garden markets.
• Familiarity with international trade, payroll outsourcing coordination, and finance system implementation projects.
• Understanding of inventory control, margin reporting, HR processes, and business growth or acquisitions support.
• Commercially astute, highly organized, proactive, with strong leadership and prioritization skills.

Working Conditions

This is a full-time permanent position based primarily at the head office in Watlington, Oxfordshire, with some flexibility available for the right candidate. Additional hours may be needed during critical periods such as month-end and year-end closing or budget preparation.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary package (£55,000 to £65,000 dependent on experience).
• Influential leadership role within an expanding enterprise.
• A supportive, collaborative team environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and long-term career advancement.
• Convenient rural location with free onsite parking and comfortable rest areas offering complimentary refreshments.
• Access to an on-site independent café and company pension scheme.