Financial Project Controller

Project Finance Controller Project Account Cheshire area Full-Time £50-55K + bonus + pension + flexi time Company Overview: We are assisting an engineering project company to recruit a Project Accountant who has experience in working within an engineering / manufacturing project environment. This potentially could be in a variety of industries such as chemical , petrochemical aerospace or automotive. This role is pivotal in managing financial aspects for Technical Services and Projects, working with the Project Managers in the UK but reporting to and working alongside an experienced team who are based in Europe. As a key business partner, you will oversee cost reporting and support the development of new systems and processes to ensure effective cost collection and invoicing. This role is a unique opportunity to join a nuclear company at the beginning of a growth phase in their business. They operate in a very security sensitive environment and SC level security clearance is required. A process that for a UK passport holder will take 3-4 months to achieve. Key Responsibilities: * Act as the financial business partner for Technical Services and Projects, leading cost reporting and system development. * Support the Project Manager and Commercial Manager on commercial matters. * Update financial forecasts, estimates to complete, and estimates at completion with input from the project team. * Challenge and analyse the financial performance of projects. * Manage the sales order and invoicing process. * Align invoicing and cash flow with the customer’s finance team. * Ensure SAP workflows are maintained with the support of Group Finance. * Translate sales orders into project budgets. * Secure and control data for customer invoicing. * Manage Work Breakdown Structure (WBS): release WBS projects and budget in SAP. * Set up financial reporting in accordance with group guidelines. * Conduct monthly project closures and report to Group Finance. * Provide project Profit and Loss (P&L) reports in line with Corporate Finance guidelines. * Perform margin and gap analysis. * Monitor bought-in services (hours via time writing) and ensure accurate customer charging. * Provide the Project Manager with financial impact assessments of identified risks, in close coordination with the Project Services Manager. Experience & Qualifications: * Degree in a relevant field and a professional financial qualification, preferably CIMA. * Minimum of 2 years’ post CIMA qualification experience in a finance controlling role, in a project-related environment * Knowledge of international accounting standards and Companies Act requirements. * Strong analytical, communication, and influencing skills. * Effective team player with the ability to influence across multifunctional and multicultural teams. * Proactive and confident in identifying and implementing changes. * Flexibility and willingness to travel to various company sites as needed. Benefits: Competitive salary. Up to £55000 Company performance bonus. ( circa £3.5K ) 25 days holiday, increasing to 28 days after 6 years of service. All statutory bank holidays. One additional day off every 4 weeks to 13 / year. Company sick pay. Defined contribution pension scheme. Flexible working WFH 2 days