Senior Project Controller

Job Title: Senior Business Controller

Location: Stevenage (Hybrid)

Salary: £80,000 – £90,000

Type: Full-time

Overview

An exclusive opportunity with Robert Half for a Senior Business Controller to join a high-performing finance function. This role offers strong business partnering exposure, leadership responsibility, and involvement in strategic financial decision-making within a project-driven environment.

We need someone who can work a couple of days a week from the Stevenage office alongside the Project Managers. You'll have proven project experience, ideally within a complex engineering, manufacturing or technical environment, and a strong understanding of work package management . This role involves coordinating and managing multiple interdependent work packages or smaller projects that sit within a larger, complex programme, ensuring deliverables, timelines, risks and dependencies are effectively managed across the wider project.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, support, and develop the controlling team to deliver effective business partnering across the organisation.
• Ensure all internal and external reporting requirements are delivered accurately and on time (month-end, half-year, and year-end).
• Manage financial planning cycles and quarterly forecasting processes.
• Partner with Project Managers, coordinating and leading monthly project reviews.
• Analyse financial data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement.
• Monitor and control project expenditure to ensure alignment with approved budgets.
• Assess project revenue using Percentage of Completion (POC) and Time & Materials (T&M) methodologies.
• Reconcile project work-in-progress on a monthly basis.
• Monitor, report, and advise on project and contract status; maintain accurate financial records.
• Prepare and present financial reports to senior management.
• Develop, implement, and maintain financial policies and procedures.
• Support operational teams with contract bid preparation, billing structures, and cost rate analysis.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide financial insight and support decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and internal standards.
• Conduct financial risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.
• Support month-end and year-end close processes.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Fully qualified (CIMA, ACCA, or equivalent).
• Strong experience in financial management and controlling roles.
• Excellent understanding of financial principles and practices.
• Proficient in financial systems and Microsoft Office (advanced Excel preferred).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.

Experience Required

• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in financial management or a similar role.
• Previous team leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Experience with SAP, particularly SAP S/4HANA, is advantageous.