Knight Frank is looking to hire a Partner, Group Financial Controller to oversee the financial operations of the UK.

We are the world’s leading independent international property consultancy, headquartered in the UK, offering agency and professional advice across Commercial, Residential and Rural sectors. Established in 1896, Knight Frank now comprises a global network of over 20,000 people in 600+ Offices across 50 Territories.

Why Knight Frank?

Role:

The Partner, Group Financial Controller role offers a unique opportunity to lead and shape the financial operations of the UK business, including managing core functions such as management accounts, payroll, and accounts payable. With responsibility for developing a shared service strategy and transitioning client accounting functions, this position combines leadership, strategy, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the financial operations of the UK, including financial reporting. Ensure accurate and timely financial information is provided to the senior management team.
• Manage the functions – Management Accounts, Payroll, Accounts Payable, Credit Control, Cashiers, Sales Ledger.
• Lead and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement. Provide mentorship and guidance to team members.
• Ensure the company adheres to all regulatory requirements and financial standards. Maintain a strong internal control environment and manage external audits. Reporting to the FCA for regulated entities.
• Collaborate with senior management to develop and implement financial strategies that support the company’s growth objectives.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders internal and external.
• Identify and mitigate financial risks to ensure the stability and sustainability of the company. Implement risk management policies and procedures.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of financial systems and processes. Ensure efficient and effective financial operations across the group. Approve/Advise on changes to the Finance SAP ERP system and SAP Concur expenses – working closely with the SAP IT team.
• Design a transition plan for currently devolved client accounting functions, to take line management for these functions, and implement best practice policies and procedures.
• Design and a strategy for a shared service function for the back office of the business.
• Maintain the arrangements for the 80 Equity Partners – arrange capital, drawings, profit share, car loans, prepare Member Accounts.
• Member of the Business Services Board.
• Foster accountability and financial awareness across the firm.

Key Experience Required:

• Proven experience in a senior financial management role.
• Strong technical financial accounting skills most likely a qualified CIMA/ACCA/ACA
• Excellent leadership and team development abilities.
• Experience with shared service functions and internal control environments.
• Excellent systems knowledge – SAP and Workday.
• Experience of transformation projects.

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Please note: this is a Direct Search led by Knight Frank. Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted nor will fees be paid for unsolicited CVs, even if provided by PSL agencies.

We are committed to creating an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace. We welcome applications from all individuals and provide equal opportunities for everyone.  We also offer reasonable adjustments to ensure all candidates have a fair chance during the recruitment process.