We are currently seeking an individual to join our client's team as a 'Finance & Commercial Controller' based in Arklow, Wicklow
Purpose of Role
The Finance & Commercial Controller is both an operational & strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing all financial operations, commercial strategy, and business performance. This role combines strategic financial management with commercial leadership to drive profitability, ensure financial compliance, manage cash flow, manage Organisational P&L, and support the company's growth objectives in the engineering, production and construction sectors.
Responsibilities
Financial Management & Accounting
· Oversee all accounting operations including accounts payable/receivable, general ledger, payroll, and financial reporting
· Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with Irish GAAP/IFRS standards
· Manage month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
· Ensure compliance with Irish Revenue requirements including VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax, and RCT (Relevant Contracts Tax)
· Coordinate annual statutory audits and liaise with external auditors and tax advisors
· Implement and maintain robust internal financial controls and procedures for all client group businesses and connected parties.
· Manage banking relationships and maintain optimal cash balances across accounts
Cash Flow & Working Capital Management
· Develop and maintain 13-week rolling cash flow forecasts with scenario planning
· Monitor daily cash positions and manage cash conversion cycle to optimize working capital
· Manage credit control processes to minimize debtor days and reduce bad debt exposure risk.
· Implement payment terms with suppliers while maintaining strong relationships
· Oversee creditor payments ensuring timely payment within agreed terms
· Implement strategies to reduce non-billed revenue, aged dept and improve cash collection
· Foreign Currency Account Management to maximise purchasing value and reduce risk.
· Coordinate with Business Development Team to align project milestones with payment schedules
Budgeting, Forecasting & Performance Management
· Lead annual budgeting process in collaboration with Managing Director and company Directors
· Prepare monthly management accounts with variance analysis and KPI dashboards
· Develop financial forecasts and business plans supporting strategic objectives
· Monitor project profitability and conduct post-project financial reviews
· Track key financial metrics: gross margin, EBITDA, net profit, ROI, working capital ratios
· Provide financial insights and recommendations to support business decisions
· Identify cost reduction opportunities and efficiency improvements across operations
Cost Management & Procurement
· Oversee procurement processes ensuring value for money and supplier compliance
· Monitor material costs, labour rates, and overheads to control project costs
· Implement cost allocation methodologies for accurate project costing
· Analyse production costs and identify opportunities for margin improvement
· Manage supplier contracts and negotiate pricing agreements
· Establish approval hierarchies and purchase order controls
· Monitor waste reduction initiatives and their financial impact
Risk Management & Compliance
· Ensure compliance with all Irish financial regulations, tax laws, and reporting requirements
· Manage company insurance policies (liability, professional indemnity, property, motor fleet)
· Assess financial risks including credit risk, currency risk, and project risk
· Implement financial controls to prevent fraud and financial irregularities
· Ensure QMS compliance in financial processes and documentation
· Maintain company registrations with CRO, Revenue, and regulatory bodies
Commercial Strategy & Business Development
· Develop and implement commercial strategies to maximize revenue and profitability
· Support tender pricing and contract negotiations for major projects
· Conduct financial analysis of new business opportunities and project bids
· Establish pricing strategies and margin targets for different product lines
· Monitor market trends, competitor pricing, and industry benchmarks
· Support business development activities with financial modelling and ROI analysis
Systems & Technology
· Oversee financial systems including accounting & Payroll software SAGE
· Implement and maintain financial reporting tools and dashboards
· Ensure data integrity and security of financial information
· Evaluate and recommend new financial technologies and software solutions
· Manage relationships with Finance software vendors and IT support providers
· Train staff on financial systems and reporting tools
Team Leadership & Development
· Build and lead the finance function, recruiting and developing finance staff as business grows
· Provide direction and support to accounts team ensuring professional development
· Foster a culture of accuracy, integrity, and continuous improvement
· Collaborate effectively with operations, production, and sales/design teams
· Present financial results to Board of Directors and senior management
· Act as trusted advisor to Managing Director on all financial matters
· Support organisational change initiatives from a financial perspective
Qualifications & Experience
Essential Requirements
· Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CPA) with full professional membership
· Minimum 10 years post-qualification experience in financial management roles
· Proven experience in commercial/finance management within manufacturing, construction, or engineering sectors
· Strong understanding of Irish tax system (VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax, RCT)
· Demonstrated expertise in cash flow management and working capital optimization
· Advanced proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Sage, Xero, QuickBooks, SAP)
· Expert-level Excel skills including financial modelling, pivot tables, and advanced formulas
· Experience preparing statutory financial statements and managing external audits
· Strong commercial acumen with experience in pricing, tendering, and contract negotiations
· Excellent analytical skills with ability to interpret complex financial data
Desirable Requirements
· Experience in construction, or manufacturing industries
· Understanding of construction industry payment practices (retention, stage payments)
· Experience managing multi-site or group company finances
· Knowledge of grant funding applications and R&D tax credit claims
· Exposure to business planning for growth or acquisition scenarios
Key Skills & Competencies
Technical & Financial Skills
· Financial statement preparation and analysis (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow)
· Management accounting and cost accounting methodologies
· Financial modelling, forecasting, and scenario planning
· Budgeting and variance analysis
· Project costing and profitability analysis
· Working capital management and cash flow optimisation
· Pricing strategy and margin analysis
· Risk assessment and mitigation
· Statutory compliance and corporate governance
· Financial systems implementation and optimization
Commercial & Business Skills
· Strategic thinking with ability to align financial strategy with business objectives
· Commercial negotiation and contract management
· Business case development and investment appraisal
· Market analysis and competitive benchmarking
· Process improvement and operational efficiency
· Change management and digital transformation
· Stakeholder management (banks, auditors, Revenue, suppliers)
· Risk management and internal controls
Leadership & Interpersonal Skills
· Strong leadership with ability to build and develop high-performing teams
· Excellent communication skills - ability to present complex financial information clearly
· Strategic influencer - ability to guide business decisions through financial insights
· High integrity and ethical standards with strong attention to detail
· Proactive problem-solver with solutions-oriented mindset
· Collaborative team player able to work across all organizational levels
· Resilient under pressure with ability to manage multiple priorities
· Adaptable and flexible in fast-paced, dynamic environment
· Results-driven with focus on continuous improvement
· Discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive financial information
Remuneration & Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience (depending on qualifications and experience). Performance-based bonus linked to company financial performance and individual KPIs. Benefits package including pension contribution, health insurance subsidy, life assurance, professional membership fees, and continuing professional development support.
Application Process
To apply, please submit your CV, cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, and details of three professional references.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a two-stage interview process including a financial case study presentation.
An equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From €75,000.00 per year
Education:
Experience:
- Financial management: 10 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Accountancy qualification with full professional membership (required)
Work authorisation:
Work Location: In person
