Senior Business Controller
Glasgow, United Kingdom Hybrid Permenant
About the Role
We are seeking a Senior Business Controller to join a high-performing team delivering a complex, high-value defence programme. This is a pivotal role supporting a 250m+ project (with significant future growth), offering strong visibility across senior stakeholders and the opportunity to influence key financial decisions.
You will play a critical role in ensuring financial control, supporting programme delivery, and driving performance across a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
What You’ll Gain
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Senior-level exposure on a large, complex programme
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Opportunity to influence key financial and operational decisions
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Experience working with cross-functional and senior stakeholders
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A role within a growing and innovative business environment
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Strong career development and progression opportunities
Key Responsibilities
Programme Control
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Partner with Programme Directors and delivery teams to manage cost forecasts and estimates
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Monitor financial risks, contingencies, and overall programme performance
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Deliver programme dashboards and present financial insights to senior audiences
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Identify cost-saving opportunities and mitigation strategies
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Ensure financial compliance with contractual and internal requirements
Budgeting & Forecasting
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Manage forecasts across orders, revenue, margin, invoicing, and cash flow
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Lead monthly, annual, and multi-year budgeting cycles
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Collaborate with procurement, PMO, commercial, and sales teams
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Align financial plans with programme delivery milestones
Reporting & Analysis
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Lead month-end close processes including P&L and balance sheet reviews
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Provide variance analysis and clear financial commentary
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Support portfolio-level reporting and performance assessments
Financial Controls & Audit
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Act as the main point of contact for audit activities
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Ensure adherence to financial controls, policies, and procedures
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Present financial data clearly to internal and external stakeholders
Additional Responsibilities
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Support bid processes and commercial claims
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Contribute to margin improvement initiatives
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Assist with regulatory and statutory reporting
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Deliver ad-hoc financial analysis and insight
About You
You are a proactive and analytical finance professional who thrives in a complex, project-based environment.
Essential:
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Professional accounting qualification (CIMA, ACCA, ACA or equivalent)
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Strong understanding of financial and commercial principles
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Proven experience in long-term project accounting
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Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
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Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
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Advanced Excel capability
Desirable:
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Experience within a defence or engineering environment
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Knowledge of regulated contract reporting frameworks (e.g. SSRO/DEFCARS)
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Experience with ERP and planning tools (e.g. Oracle, TM1)
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Degree in Finance or a related discipline
Security Requirements
Candidates will be required to provide evidence of identity, right to work in the UK, and employment or education history. Some roles may require additional security clearance.
What We Offer
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Flexible working options (including hybrid, part-time, and flexible hours)
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Ongoing training, mentoring, and development opportunities
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Clear career progression pathways
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A collaborative and inclusive working environment
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The opportunity to work on impactful and innovative projects
Apply Now
Take the next step in your finance career and be part of a team delivering critical, high-impact programmes.