Group Financial Controller – Shared Services (India)
Role Overview
We're looking for a hands-on, driven Group Financial Controller to lead our India-based finance shared services function. This role takes full ownership of core finance operations across a group of 20 companies operating in the UK, Ireland, US, South Africa, and India.
You'll be responsible for ensuring tight financial control, accurate reporting, and efficient processes across multiple jurisdictions. This is not a passive oversight role — you'll be expected to get into the detail, fix issues, and build a high-performing function.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Control & Oversight
- Take full ownership of financial controls across all group entities
- Ensure compliance with local regulations and group policies across multiple countries
- Drive consistency and standardisation of processes across the shared service function
Management Accounts & Reporting
- Oversee timely and accurate monthly management accounts for all entities
- Consolidate group reporting and deliver clear financial insights to senior leadership
- Identify trends, risks, and opportunities through robust analysis
Shared Services Leadership
- Lead and manage the India-based finance shared services team
- Cover key functions including:
- Credit Control
- Accounts Payable (AP)
- Payroll
- Management Accounts
- Continuously improve efficiency, scalability, and service quality
Credit Control
- Oversee group-wide receivables and cash collection performance
- Implement strong credit control processes to improve cash flow and reduce aged debt
Accounts Payable (AP)
- Ensure accurate and timely processing of supplier invoices and payments
- Strengthen controls around approvals, supplier management, and cash outflows
Payroll
- Oversee payroll processes across multiple jurisdictions
- Ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely delivery
Process Improvement & Systems
- Identify inefficiencies and implement process improvements
- Support system enhancements and automation across finance functions
Stakeholder Management
- Act as a key finance partner to senior leadership across all regions
- Work closely with local teams in the UK, Ireland, US, South Africa, and India
Key Requirements
- Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Proven experience in a Group Financial Controller or senior finance role
- Strong experience managing shared service functions
- Multi-entity and multi-country experience is essential
- Deep understanding of:
- Management reporting
- Financial controls
- AP / AR / Payroll operations
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop offshore teams
Personal Attributes
- Hands-on and not afraid to get into the detail
- Takes ownership and accountability — gets things done
- Commercially aware with strong analytical thinking
- Highly organised and able to manage complexity
- Dynamic, proactive, and solutions-driven
- Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, evolving environment
