Job Title: WIP Controller

Department: Finance Reporting To: Working Capital Director Location: Sea Containers, London (hyrbid)

 

 

The Opportunity: WIP Controller

Are you a meticulous financial professional with a keen eye for detail and a passion for optimising financial processes? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where your contributions directly impact the company's financial health?

VML is seeking a dedicated and proactive WIP Controller to join our dynamic Finance team. This is a pivotal role that sits at the heart of our operational finance, ensuring the smooth and efficient management of our Work In Progress (WIP) and contributing significantly to our working capital efficiency. You will play a crucial role in maintaining financial integrity, supporting project profitability, and fostering strong relationships across our global network.

 

What You'll Do: Key Responsibilities

As a WIP Controller, you will be instrumental in managing the financial lifecycle of our projects, from inception to closure. Your responsibilities will include:

• Client Billing & Process Management: Develop a deep understanding of unique client billing requirements and contractual processes, ensuring accurate and timely invoicing that aligns with client expectations and internal policies.
• Proactive WIP Analysis & Resolution: Conduct rigorous weekly analysis of Work In Progress (WIP) balances, identifying potential issues, bottlenecks, and opportunities for accelerated clearance to optimize cash flow and reduce financial risk.
• Unbilled Revenue Management: Take ownership of managing unbilled revenue, proactively following up with internal teams (Project Managers, Account Management) to secure missing client Purchase Orders (POs) and ensure revenue recognition.
• Invoice Query Resolution: Act as a primary point of contact for resolving complex invoice queries related to billing and debtors, demonstrating excellent problem-solving skills and maintaining positive client and internal relationships.
• Project Financial Closure: Collaborate closely with Project Managers and Producers to facilitate the timely and accurate financial closure of projects, ensuring all costs are captured and revenue is recognized appropriately.
• Strategic WIP Meetings: Lead and participate in regular WIP review meetings with Account Management and Producers, providing insightful commentary, driving actions, and fostering a shared understanding of project financial status.
• Comprehensive Month-End Reporting: Prepare detailed month-end reports with insightful commentary across Accrued Income, Pre-billing, Costs, and Deferred Income, providing critical financial insights to leadership.
• Global Inter-company Reconciliation: Work collaboratively with VML offices worldwide to reconcile and agree upon inter-company month-end balances, ensuring global financial accuracy and consistency.
• Purchase Order Management: Accurately raise and manage Purchase Orders (POs), ensuring proper authorization, vendor compliance, and adherence to procurement policies.
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Who You Are: Your Profile

You are a detail-oriented and analytical finance professional with a collaborative spirit and a commitment to excellence. You will bring:

• Foundational Experience: At least 1 year of hands-on experience in billing and WIP control, ideally within a fast-paced agency or project-based environment.
• Exceptional Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to financial data, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and the integrity of all financial records.
• Outstanding Interpersonal Skills: The ability to build rapport and communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels, from junior team members to senior leadership, and across diverse departments (Account Management, Production, Project Management).
• Collaborative Team Player: A genuine desire to contribute to a supportive team environment, sharing knowledge, and working together to achieve collective goals.
• Analytical Mindset: Strong analytical skills to interpret financial data, identify trends, and provide actionable insights.
• Proactive & Problem-Solver: A self-starter who anticipates challenges, takes initiative to resolve issues, and continuously seeks improvements in processes.
• Adaptability: The ability to thrive in a dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to evolving business needs.
• Financial Software Proficiency: Experience with relevant financial management systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Workday, or similar ERP systems) is highly desirable.

 

Why VML?

Joining VML means becoming part of a global family that values creativity, innovation, and people. We offer:

• Impactful Work: The opportunity to play a critical role in the financial success of a leading global creative company.
• Collaborative Culture: Work alongside talented professionals in a supportive and inclusive environment.
• Growth & Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement within a global network.
• Vibrant Location: Our office in the iconic Sea Containers building offers a fantastic working environment with stunning views and excellent amenities.
• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: A comprehensive package that recognizes your value and contributions.

If you are ready to take the next step in your finance career and contribute to a world-class organisation, we encourage you to apply!