Finance Leader (Distilleries)

William Grant & Sons is the biggest independent family-owned drinks business in Scotland, best known for the world renowned single malt whisky, Glenfiddich. 

Although whisky is at the heart of its operations through its Glenfiddich and Balvenie brands and the Family Reserve blends, Grant’s has diversified significantly over the years and its portfolio includes the hugely successful Hendrick’s Gin, Gibson’s Finest Canadian, Reyka Vodka and Sailor Jerry rum. It also owns the New York State-based craft distiller Tuthilltown Spirits and the no.2 Irish Whiskey brand Tullamore Dew.

The business has the scale, fire power, influence and international structure of a FTSE 100 company. It clearly also has fantastic brands and products as well as an ability to attract top class talent, both Executive and Non Executive. It does not however have some of the pressures which comes with being a PLC and this allows it to be very entrepreneurial, flexible and fleet of foot.

This is a key and visible role within the company to plan, lead and control the distilling finance function (a very significant part of the business), specifically to optimise operational efficiencies and maximise returns on capital investments.

Responsibilities will therefore include:

• Ensuring robust controls are in place across all distillery sites globally
• The delivery of high quality financial planning, monthly and year end reporting and ensuring the consistency of metrics and KPI’s across the business
• Partnering the Distilling & Technical Leadership team and supporting project work including capital projects, improvement in operational reporting, business analysis and the integration of new brands and businesses
• Promoting a ‘one team’ approach to Finance in support of the delivery of a World Class Finance function across the Group

Candidates will be qualified accountants with relevant PQE and strong financial analysis skills. Understanding of financial control and reporting methodologies gained in a manufacturing environment would be helpful but not a necessity. What is key however is the ability to adhere to deadlines and adopt a challenging approach to deliver robust, accurate financial data and information to meet business needs.

This is an outstanding entry point into one of the country’s leading businesses. Potential for future progression is also excellent.

For further information and detailed conversation please contact Willie Finlayson via willie@fwbparkbrown.com or by phone 0131 539 7087