Assistant Group Controller

ABOUT US

Nido is on an exciting journey to become Europe's leading Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) provider. Our story began with a vision to create exceptional living spaces that bring together quality, community, and design — a vision that continues to guide our growth today. With 12,000 beds across 32 properties in the Iberian Peninsula and our new European headquarters in Madrid, we're shaping the future of how students live, connect, and thrive.

In 2025, we welcomed Livensa Living into the Nido family, creating one of Europe's largest and most dynamic living platforms. Together, we're expanding into new markets like Germany and Italy, bringing our passion for design, community, and exceptional resident experiences to even more people across Europe.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The Assistant Group Controller is responsible for ensuring a robust control environment over the financial closing process, group consolidation, and preparation of official IFRS financial reporting. The role ensures the accuracy, consistency, and timeliness of externally reported financial information. Acting as the Group's technical IFRS expert, the position serves as a key point of contact for auditors, advisors, and other stakeholders.

 KEY TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES (include but are not limited to)

Group IFRS Reporting

• Prepare official financial reports, including:
  • Annual and interim IFRS financial statements at various Group levels
  • Deliverables to external lenders/borrowers
  • Reporting packages for shareholders
• Build and prepare:
  • Consolidated cash flow statements
  • Deferred tax
  • Other complex disclosure requirements
  • Purchase Price Allocations (PPA) and other complex accounting calculations
• Document, review and maintain internal controls over financial reporting

IFRS Technical Research, Compliance & Consultancy

• Ensure full compliance with IFRS requirements
• Draft the Group Accounting Manual, technical accounting papers, and disclosure memos
• Monitor and assess the impact of new or amended IFRS standards
• Ensure accuracy and clarity of judgement and estimate-based disclosures
• Provide technical guidance to local finance teams on IFRS application
• Support complex transactions (acquisitions, disposals, refinancings, etc.) and ensure proper IFRS accounting treatment for new business activities

Governance, Controls & Audit

• Coordinate and liaise with external auditors and internal stakeholders
• Serve as the primary contact for auditors and technical advisers
• Respond to stakeholder queries related to financial reporting
• Ensure compliance with internal controls, documentation, and reporting deadlines
• Support the Group Controller/Finance Director in communications with investors, lenders, and the Board

Projects & Improvements

• Prepare and maintain Group Reporting Packages for subsidiaries
• Drive improvements in Group reporting processes and systems
• Support implementation of new consolidation and reporting tool

QUALIFICATIONS

• Qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA, CPA, or equivalent)
• Strong technical knowledge of IFRS and group consolidation

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 5 years of experience in Group reporting / external reporting roles or in Big 4.
• Experience with public listed companies reporting under IFRS
• Hands-on experience with group consolidations and disclosures
• Experience working with external auditors (Big 4) and advisors
• Experience with consolidation systems (e.g., Lucanet, HFM, or similar)
• Knowledge of ESG/sustainability reporting in relation to financial reporting (preferred)
• Exposure to the living or real assets sectors (e.g., student accommodation, residential, or hospitality) is highly advantageous.
• Commercially minded and pragmatic, with strong business acumen and the ability to balance risk with operational goals.
• Confident communicator, comfortable working with investors and senior stakeholders.
• Fluent in English; Spanish, German or Italian language skills are advantageous.

KEY PERSONAL SKILLS & TRAITS

• Hands-On: Willing to roll up your sleeves to resolve issues and drive outcomes.
• Collaborative Partner: Effective at managing cross-functional teams and third-party stakeholders.
• Solution-driven: Focuses on actionable outcomes over obstacles, with asset performance and protection as the top priority.
• Detail-Oriented: Able to manage complex data and ensure high-quality outputs.
• Resilient & Adaptive: Thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment with multiple priorities.
• Influential Communicator: Able to convey complex information clearly and persuasively to align diverse stakeholders.