At Love Success, we specialise in connecting top talent with exciting opportunities in office support roles across London. Our goal is to make your job search smooth and successful, whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out.
Today, we’re sharing an inside look at what it’s like to work as a Finance Controller, through the eyes of someone who’s been there.
Lin’s story
When people ask me what I do for a living, I often find myself pausing. Being a Finance Controller is not a role that fits neatly into a one-sentence explanation, but I’ll do my best to give you a glimpse into my world.
As a Finance Controller, I’m responsible for managing the financial activities of my organisation, which means my day is usually a whirlwind of numbers, reports, and strategic meetings. My role sits at the intersection of finance and management, requiring both analytical skills and the ability to lead a team effectively.
The different aspects of the finance controller role
My day typically starts with reviewing financial reports from the previous day. This might sound tedious to some, but for me, it’s like being a detective piecing together clues. I examine every detail, looking for anomalies or trends that might indicate something is off or an opportunity to improve. It’s my job to ensure that our financial data is accurate and up-to-date, which is crucial for making informed business decisions.
One of the most challenging aspects of my role is forecasting. I work closely with other departments to predict future financial trends, which involves a lot of educated guesswork and a deep understanding of both the industry and our company's position within it. It’s a bit like trying to predict the weather – you have to account for numerous variables and accept that you might not always get it right. However, when you do, it’s incredibly rewarding.
The management aspect
Another key part of my job is managing the finance team. Recruitment agencies in London, and specifically Love Success, played a huge role in helping us find the right people for these positions. Leading a team requires a balance of empathy and authority. I need to ensure my team is motivated, well-trained, and focused on our financial goals. A big part of this involves regular one-on-one meetings, where we discuss their progress, challenges, and any areas where they might need additional support or training.
A lot of my time is also spent in meetings with senior management. As the Finance Controller, I’m the go-to person for all things finance-related. Whether it’s discussing budget allocation for a new project or advising on cost-saving strategies, I need to be prepared to provide detailed, accurate financial insights at a moment’s notice.
Working in London
One of the reasons I love working in London is the exciting environment. The city is a hub for finance, and being here means I’m always at the forefront of industry developments. Plus, I’ve been able to make connections with some of the best professionals in the field, which has been invaluable for my career progression.
If you’re interested in finance controller roles, I really recommend connecting with Love Success. They can help you find the role at your level and in an exciting company.
Register now.