Assistant Division Controller

The Sr. Director, Assistant Controller plays a critical leadership role within WHSmith’s North America Finance organization, ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of all accounting operations. This role partners closely with the VP, Controller and executive leadership to oversee accounting, internal controls, internal financial reporting, and accounting operational excellence. The Sr. Director, Assistant Controller applies accounting expertise to not only close the books but to also shape financial strategies, drive process improvement, and support business growth.

Key Responsibilities

General Ledger Accounting

• Lead general ledger accounting activities, including cash, expenses, prepaids, accruals, journal entries, reconciliations, roll forwards, and balance sheet analysis.
• Provide guidance on related accounting areas, including revenue, fixed assets, inventory, and leases.
• Manage monthly and semi-annual close processes, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and efficiency.
• Partner with the VP, Controller to improve accounting processes, controls, and systems.

Joint Venture Accounting

• Oversee accounting and reporting for 150 retail joint ventures.
• Determine appropriate accounting treatment for new joint ventures and ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
• Ensure timely and accurate recording of joint venture transactions, allocations, loans, and distributions.
• Identify opportunities to streamline and enhance joint venture accounting activities.

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Oversee the preparation of accurate, timely IFRS-compliant financial statements.
• Maintain strong internal controls to support compliance, accurate reporting, and asset protection.
• Recommend improvements to reduce close cycle times and enhance operational effectiveness.
• Serve as the primary contact for external and internal accounting audits and monitor changes to accounting standards.

Leadership & Strategic Partnership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting team, establishing clear objectives and supporting professional growth.
• Foster a collaborative culture aligned with company values and business objectives.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, technical accounting matters, M&A activities, due diligence, and other strategic initiatives.

What you Bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 10 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP/IFRS, financial reporting, and joint venture accounting.
• CPA or CMA designation preferred; public accounting experience is a plus.
• Experience with ERP systems (Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, SAP, or similar) and advanced Excel skills.
• Retail, inventory, and multi-location business experience strongly preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to drive process improvements.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively across functions.