Finance Director - Operations & Control

About Low Carbon

Low Carbon invests in, develops, and operates large-scale renewable energy projects across the globe to fight climate change and protect the planet for future generations. We are building a net-zero energy company with the goal of creating as much renewable energy as possible. We are a purpose driven, long-standing certified B-Corp and recognised as gold standard for our environmental impact.

Our culture is really important to us. Our people are friendly, approachable and professional. We value enthusiasm, entrepreneurialism, clear communication and drive. This combined with our purpose and passion for climate change, is why our colleagues recommend Low Carbon as a great place to work.

Role Description

The Finance Director, Operations and Controls, is a core member of our Senior Finance Leadership team, integral to achieving Low Carbon's financial and strategic objectives. This senior role will work closely with the Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to shape and lead financial operations, reporting, and controls across the Low Carbon group. The role will work closely with the wider Finance department, Exco as well as business functions, including Investment and Development. This role is also an active participant in the Board of Directors Audit and Risk Committee.

Based in our new, modern London office, the Finance Director will be a key part in creating a world-class finance organisation. The role has accountability for the controller office, covering all activities across the group including accounting processes, record to report, transactional finance activities (including cash and debt management and reporting), financial and internal controls, management of the audit, finance systems, statutory and management reporting.

The ideal candidate will bring gravitas and a strong executive presence, demonstrating leadership, and influencing abilities, and superior business partnering. The ability to inspire and influence decisions at the highest levels will be essential.

Key Responsibilities

Finance Leadership

• Lead a high-performing team of 25 finance professionals, fostering an environment of accountability, continuous learning, and excellence
• Set objectives that prioritise customer-centricity, quality, and transformation, aligning with Low Carbon's broader mission
• Serve as a strategic partner at ExCo level, guiding robust financial decisions and fostering alignment with the company's long-term growth strategy

Accounting Policies and Controls framework

• Lead the development, maintenance and communication the accounting policies and control framework, ensuring compliance across the business
• Proactively support and monitor finance teams to ensure adherence to established policies, driving a culture of rigorous controls

Accounting and Reporting

• Accountable for leading, planning and delivering world class External Reporting and Compliance, ensuring timely and accurate closing of ledgers for all group entities, to support effective financial reporting
• Oversees the production of the management and statutory accounts and consolidations, with over 150 entities within the group
• Oversees the production of the annual report and other regulatory fillings

External Audit Management

• Act as the primary contact for external auditors, leading all audit activities, including planning, coordination, and resolution of findings
• Ensure consistent and proactive audit readiness across the finance organisation

Operational processes, financial systems and continuous improvement

• Drive continuous improvement in operational processes, enhancing efficiency and accuracy
• Lead finance transformation initiatives, ensuring adoption of technology that supports automation, scalability, and data-driven decision-making

Risk Management and Internal Controls

• Strengthen the company's risk management framework, proactively identifying and mitigating financial risks
• Lead initiatives to enhance internal controls, embedding a risk-aware culture across the finance team and broader business functions

Finance Systems Accountability

• Lead the management and optimisation of finance systems, ensuring they support operational efficiency, reporting accuracy, and compliance
• Drive the implementation and continuous improvement of ERP and financial systems to enhance automation, scalability, and integration with other business functions
• Collaborate with IT and cross-functional teams to ensure finance systems are aligned with strategic needs, adaptable for growth, and secure from risks

Stakeholder Engagement and Business Partnering

• Develop strong, collaborative relationships with senior stakeholders, effectively translating financial insights into actionable recommendations
• Act as a strategic advisor to business units, aligning finance capabilities with operational goals

M&A Diligence and Support

• Lead financial due diligence and integration for mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships
• Evaluate financial risks and opportunities related to M&A activities, ensuring alignment with Low Carbon's financial strategy and objectives
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Legal and Investment, to provide financial insights and support decision-making for M&A transactions

Skills & Experience

• Finance professional/degree or equivalent
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong influencing skills at senior level
• Experienced in the controls space
• Experience of finance transformation and a range of technology tools
• Able to thrive in a highly demanding and often ambiguous environment
• Structured thinker
• Experience in Energy, not a must, but would be valued

Our Compensation & Benefits

• 26 days holiday plus your birthday off (with option to buy a further 5 days)
• Discretionary Bonus
• Bupa Health Check & Private Healthcare for you and your family (medical history disregarded)
• Contributory Pension
• Cycle scheme
• Season Ticket Loan
• Pluxee for commercial discounts and perks
• 3 additional days for volunteering to support causes of your choice
• Annual credit towards short notice childcare, eldercare and pet care via 'Bubble'