Welcome back to Scaling Smart: The Finance Leadership Podcast, the show for business leaders who know that great finance isn't just about the numbers — it's about building the backbone for sustainable growth.I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and in today’s episode, we’re talking about something that could dramatically change the way your business runs — hiring your first Financial Controller, and why getting it right in a city like London is both a challenge... and an incredible opportunity.So if you’re scaling up, your finance function is feeling the strain, and you’re wondering how to recruit a truly strategic finance leader — this episode is for you.We’ll explore:What a Financial Controller really brings to the table.The risks of hiring the wrong one — especially in London.And how Accountancy Capital is making the recruitment process smarter, faster, and far more effective.Let’s dive in.Every founder, every scaling CEO reaches a point when they realise:“I need more than just an accountant.”The business is growing. Maybe you’ve raised investment, taken on more staff, launched new products. Revenue’s up — but so are the risks.And suddenly, it’s not just about filing taxes or closing the books. It’s about building a financial strategy, managing cash flow proactively, leading a finance team, and translating complex data into action.That’s the moment you need a Financial Controller.But here’s the catch...Hiring one in London — one of the most competitive finance recruitment markets in the world — isn’t easy.And hiring the wrong one? That can be costly, painful, and set you back by months.Segment Two: What a Great Financial Controller Actually DoesHOST:Let’s clear something up.A Financial Controller is not just a “senior accountant.” They are the operational leader of your finance department. Think of them as the person who builds the system that keeps your company’s financial engine running smoothly — so you, the founder or CEO, can focus on vision and growth.Here’s what a great Financial Controller in London will typically take care of:Building and overseeing internal finance teamsDelivering monthly management accounts that drive decision-makingManaging cash flow forecasts and scenario planningImplementing systems and controls to prepare you for scale or even auditEnsuring compliance with UK regulations and international standardsLiaising with investors, auditors, HMRC — you name itActing as your financial co-pilot, especially if you don’t yet have a CFOThis is a high-impact hire.So the question is — how do you find the right one, especially in London’s saturated finance job market?That’s where Accountancy Capital comes in.Segment Three: Spotlight on Accountancy Capital’s London Financial Controller Recruitment ServiceHOST:So I want to shine a light on a firm doing something genuinely useful for London-based businesses — Accountancy Capital.Their Financial Controller Recruitment Service, which you can check out at accountancycapital.co.uk/london-financial-controller-recruitment, is designed for exactly the kind of businesses I just described.