Story Decorating Group Limited

Financial Controller

  • Full Time (39 hours per week)
  • Finance
  • Head Office, Carlisle

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Financial Controller to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the finance function within a growing construction business.


This is a hands‑on, commercially focused role, combining robust financial control with strategic insight to support profitable delivery and sustainable growth. You will work closely with the Managing Director and leadership team, providing clear, practical financial advice that drives strong decision‑making across day‑to‑day operations.


As Financial Controller, you will take full ownership of the finance function, balancing leadership and strategy with direct operational involvement. This role is ideally suited to a confident construction finance professional who enjoys being close to the detail and setting high standards.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Control


  • Lead the financial strategy in line with business objectives
  • Ensure strong financial controls, governance, and statutory compliance
  • Oversee all tax obligations including VAT, payroll and CIS
  • Act as a trusted financial advisor to the Managing Director and SLT


CIS & Subcontractor Compliance (Key Focus)


  • Take full ownership of CIS compliance, including verification, deductions, reporting and returns
  • Ensure accurate and timely subcontractor payments and records
  • Maintain robust subcontractor compliance processes and controls
  • Act as the internal expert on CIS regulations and best practice


Financial Planning & Insight


  • Lead budgeting, forecasting and longer‑term financial planning
  • Produce monthly and annual management accounts with clear commentary
  • Provide commercial insight on project costs, margins and performance


Cash Flow, Risk & Systems


  • Manage cash flow, working capital and banking relationships
  • Monitor financial risk and ensure appropriate controls
  • Oversee finance systems (including Sage) and external IT support
  • Manage company insurance and liaise with professional advisers


Payroll & Team Leadership


  • Strategic oversight of weekly and monthly payroll
  • Ensure payroll, benefits, CIS and P11Ds are accurate and compliant
  • Line manage and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement


About You

Essential Experience & Qualifications


  • Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA or CIMA)
  • CIPP or equivalent payroll qualification
  • Proven experience within the construction industry
  • Strong, hands‑on experience of CIS and subcontractor compliance
  • Solid understanding of construction cash flow, project costing and margins
  • Confident producing management accounts and financial insight for senior leaders
  • Strong systems capability, including Sage and Microsoft packages


Personal Attributes


  • Commercial, practical and solutions‑focused
  • Comfortable operating at senior leadership level while remaining hands‑on
  • Clear communicator able to translate financial detail for non‑finance colleagues
  • Calm, credible and proactive, with a strong sense of ownership


Why Join Us?

  • A senior, influential role within the leadership team
  • Opportunity to shape financial strategy and best practice
  • Varied, hands‑on work within a construction environment
  • A business that values clarity, accountability and continuous improvement

Benefits

  • 25 days holiday + bank holidays per annum
  • Free onsite parking
  • Career development and progression opportunities