Finance Controller

Cognus is seeking to appoint a Finance Controller. This is a strategically important technical role for an expert in financial accuracy, control excellence, process improvement, and the efficient use of automation and emerging technology. As Finance Controller, you will act as the senior technical finance specialist responsible for the day-to-day delivery, accuracy, compliance and continuous improvement of the financial operations of Cognus and Sutton Music Trust. Working under delegated authority from the Director of Finance and alongside two Finance Officers, you will oversee the day-to-day operation of the financial controls’ framework, ensuring agreed controls operate effectively and exceptions are appropriately escalated. You will also produce monthly management accounts, perform complex reconciliations, particularly payroll-to-GL, and drive finance system and process improvement. This is a hands-on technical role involving detailed spreadsheet analysis, review of transaction logic, investigation of payroll variances, quality assurance of Finance Officer outputs, resolution of discrepancies and development of improved reporting and control processes using Excel, Xero functionality, automation and emerging tools. Ultimate accountability for financial governance, statutory and management reporting, the external audit and the effectiveness of the control environment remain with the Director of Finance. The Finance Controller operates under delegated authority from the Director and provides technical leadership to the finance team. The role has no formal line-management responsibility. It provides technical leadership and day-to-day professional guidance to the Finance Officers, including coordinating finance-process activities where delegated, reviewing outputs, coaching colleagues, and monitoring adherence to agreed procedures. Formal supervision, performance management, appraisal, and employee-management decisions remain with the Director of Finance. This role is suited to someone committed to financial accuracy, effective controls, practical process improvement, and working collaboratively in a small, hands-on team. If you are interested and would like to be considered for this role, please apply to recruitment@cognus.org.uk with the completed application form outlining your suitability. For further information about the role, please see the attached Job Description. For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Jon Mills, Director of Finance at jon.mills@cognus.org.uk.