Finance Director - Controls and Operations

Lloyds List Intelligence are the trusted experts delivering transparent and actionable maritime data empowering 60,000 professionals around the globe to make confident decisions that drive the safe, efficient, and lawful movement of trade by sea. Our advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and industry expertise transform our unparalleled data into unique insight delivered through data and analytics services, news and commentary, and publications.

We have teams working across the globe in data and analytics, product management, editorial and market analysis, technology, marketing, sales, and customer success.

The Director of Financial Controls and Operations is a hands-on transformation role reporting directly to the CFO. You'll lead a team of 12 across while implementing critical process improvements and controls to support our next phase of growth. This confidential search is being conducted while the current incumbent remains in position.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage and mentor team of 12 people (both UK and offshore) across Accounts Receivable, Financial Operations & Tax, and Payroll functions

• Coach managers to operate more independently and apply best practices

• Build team capability and morale, particularly supporting the AR Manager who requires additional guidance

Process Transformation & Controls

• Implement robust month-end close processes with proper balance sheet reconciliations

• Establish documented procedures across procure-to-pay and order-to-cash cycles

• Drive resolution of audit management letter points and strengthen internal controls

• Transition from manual reporting to automated systems and processes

Business Partnership & Growth

• Support increasing complexity from acquisitions and international expansion

• Ensure NetSuite optimisation and process standardisation across entities

• Partner with business stakeholders to improve financial insights and decision-making

• Maintain focus on recurring revenue recognition and SaaS metrics

Essential Requirements

Experience & Background

• Senior finance professional with proven track record in similar controller roles

• Deep experience in global recurring revenue SaaS businesses

• Private equity environment exposure with understanding of growth and exit requirements

• International experience managing legal entities across multiple countries

• Track record of successfully implementing process improvements and system optimisations

Leadership & Change Management

• Strong team leadership capabilities with experience coaching and developing managers

• Proven ability to drive change in complex, fast-paced environments

• Experience working with external auditors and addressing control deficiencies

• Comfortable working with ambiguity while building structure and process

Technical Skills

• Advanced NetSuite experience preferred

• Strong technical accounting knowledge, particularly revenue recognition

• Experience with management reporting automation and business intelligence tools

What We Offer

• Impact: Lead critical transformation initiatives in a high-growth environment

• Development: Work directly with experienced CFO and PE-backed leadership team

• Growth: Be part of our expansion story through organic growth and acquisitions

Our Promise to You – Benefits

• 25 Days Holiday rising to 27 after 2 years’ service and a day off for your birthday

• Work anywhere policy (up to 4 weeks per year, subject to approval)

• Life Assurance for 4 x Salary

• Company pension scheme: employee contribution of 5% basic salary, matched by an employer contribution of 5%

• Up to 4 Days Paid Volunteering

• Healthy Lifestyle Subsidy up to £250

• Enhanced Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity, Shared Parental Leave)

• Flexible benefits including Private Healthcare Plan and Dental Insurance

We know that sometimes the 'perfect candidate' doesn't exist, and that people can be put off applying for a job if they don't fit all the requirements. If you're excited about working for us and have most, but not all of the skills or experience we're looking for, please go ahead and apply. You could be just what we need!

We believe strongly in the value of diversity and creating supportive, inclusive environments where our colleagues can succeed. As such, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, ancestry, national origin, religion, or religious creed, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, military or veteran status, citizenship, or other protected characteristics under federal, state or local law.

Please let us know of any adjustments we need to make for you to show us your best self.