Junior Project Finance Controller

We are looking for a Junior Project Finance Controller to join our Finance Team at Stern Energy. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your finance career, gaining hands-on experience in project cost control, budgeting and financial reporting within the renewable energy sector. Job Purpose The Junior Project Finance Controller will support the Finance Team in monitoring, controlling and reporting on the financial performance of projects across Stern Energy UK's renewable energy portfolio. Working closely with the Finance Manager, Project Managers and other internal departments, the role will assist with project cost tracking, budget monitoring, financial reporting, forecasting and maintaining accurate financial records. The role will contribute to effective financial control by ensuring project costs are accurately recorded, identifying discrepancies and supporting the timely preparation of financial information. This is an excellent opportunity for someone at the early stages of their finance career to develop practical experience in project controlling within the renewable energy sector. Who are we? Stern Energy operates ground-mounted photovoltaic systems for over 700MW in the UK. We are among the largest operators in Europe, with activities in five countries and over 1.6GW under management. We specialise in proposing and executing revamping and repowering projects to enhance the performance of the assets we operate. How do we work? EXPERTISE, RESPONSE, TRANSPARENCY AND PASSION: our values guide our work. Our professional commitment is to translate the expertise gained into maximum plant efficiency and maintenance of long-term performance. We provide an integrated, timely and effective service based on a "Total Quality" approach, combining experience, know-how and nationwide services. We continually invest in equipment and technology to refine our procedures and operating methods. We provide our services through internal staff to ensure autonomy and maximum responsiveness. Transparency is key to our work, ensuring our customers can rely on consistent plant monitoring and the quality of services provided. Building lasting relationships of trust with our customers is central to our approach. We have a dedicated internal team of qualified, multidisciplinary engineers with significant expertise, all committed to delivering effective solutions. Main Responsibilities

1. Project Cost Control, Purchase Orders and Cost Allocation

• Monitor project costs, commitments, purchase orders and supplier invoices against budgets.
• Maintain accurate cost records and allocations, resolving variances and discrepancies with Finance, Procurement and Project Managers.

2. Financial Reporting and Analysis

• Prepare project financial reports, budget updates, cost summaries and management information.
• Analyse actual costs against budgets and forecasts, escalating significant discrepancies.

3. Project Financial Forecasting and Performance

• Update project cost forecasts using timely financial information from relevant teams.
• Monitor project performance, profitability and financial risks, and support final cost reconciliation.

4. Financial Systems and Data Management

• Maintain accurate, complete and accessible project financial data in company systems, including IFS.
• Maintain financial reports and trackers, supporting improvements to reporting and data processes.

5. Cross-Departmental Support and Continuous Improvement

• Coordinate with Finance, Project Management, Construction, Engineering and Procurement to obtain required financial information.
• Support ad hoc financial analysis and improve project cost tracking, reporting and controls. Skills and Experience
• Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Strong organisation, prioritisation and time management.
• Clear written and verbal communication.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Accurate financial administration, record-keeping and discrepancy analysis.
• Knowledge of budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting.
• Relevant finance, accounting, project administration or cost control experience or qualification.
• Eagerness to learn financial systems, including IFS, and develop a career in project finance; renewable energy, engineering or construction experience is desirable. You will report directly to the Finance Manager. A Great Benefits Package Including
• Employee Assistance Programme – third-party support when you need it.
• Pension scheme with employer contribution.
• Company bonus programme.
• Inflation support scheme.
• Team-building days.
• Great company culture and regular social events.
• Wellness Wednesday – 30 minutes every week for mindfulness, in addition to your lunch break.
• Extensive learning and development programme.
• Regular wellbeing check-ins.
• Company mobile phone.
• Laptop.
• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) mechanism.