Job Description

Citadel Source are delighted to be partnering exclusively with Clarks to recruit a high-calibre Global Director of External Reporting & Accounting to be based at their head office in Street, Somerset. 

About the client

Founded in 1825 by brothers James and Cyrus Clark, Clarks has been synonymous with craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless style for nearly 200 years. From the invention of the sheepskin slipper to iconic designs such as the Desert Boot™ and Wallabee™, Clarks has consistently redefined footwear while staying true to its heritage. Today, the brand remains a global leader — blending tradition with innovation through cutting-edge comfort technologies, sustainable design practices, and creative collaborations with cultural icons and thought leaders. With 2025 marking Clarks’ bicentennial year, this is an incredibly exciting time to join a business that continues to shape the future of footwear while celebrating its legacy of craft, comfort, and progress.

The role

This global leadership role will oversee Clarks’ external reporting and accounting operations across both the UK and Malaysia, ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and compliance of the Group’s financial reporting.

As Global Director of External Reporting & Accounting, you will lead a high-performing international team and act as a key liaison with auditors, regulatory bodies, and senior stakeholders. You’ll ensure robust financial governance, timely and accurate statutory reporting, and effective risk management, while also taking ownership of the Group’s global tax strategy and compliance. Reporting to senior leadership, you’ll play a critical role in shaping the organisation’s financial infrastructure, influencing strategic decisions, and supporting Clarks’ continued global growth.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading global accounting and external reporting teams across the UK and Malaysia, ensuring timely and accurate financial close processes
• Managing the preparation and consolidation of Group statutory accounts under IFRS and overseeing audits across multiple international subsidiaries
• Acting as a key liaison with the Audit Committee, preparing accounting judgement papers and presenting financial and tax updates
• Owning the Group Accounting Manual and ensuring compliance with international accounting standards
• Providing accounting and tax guidance for expansion projects in new markets and channels
• Leading the Group’s corporate and indirect tax strategy, compliance, and planning activities - including transfer pricing and Pillar 2 readiness
• Supporting treasury, budgeting, and forecasting processes with accurate and timely financial insight
• Driving continuous improvement across financial systems, controls, and reporting processes to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and transparency
• Partnering closely with the parent company to align cost reporting, compliance, and financial governance frameworks

About you

You’ll be a qualified Chartered Accountant (ACA, CA or equivalent) with a strong technical grounding in financial reporting and global tax strategy. With experience gained in complex, multi-jurisdictional environments — ideally including time within a Big Four firm — you’ll bring both strategic vision and operational excellence to this role.

You will be confident presenting to senior executives and the Audit Committee, adept at navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and comfortable leading international teams. With exceptional stakeholder management skills, you’ll combine commercial acumen with the highest standards of integrity and attention to detail.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Proven background in financial management, accounting policy, and corporate tax strategy
• Experience managing global audits and implementing robust internal controls
• Deep understanding of IFRS and international reporting frameworks
• Exposure to transfer pricing, multi-jurisdictional compliance, and global mobility considerations
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with large ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle
• Demonstrated ability to mentor teams and collaborate effectively across geographies
• Strong balance between strategic thinking and hands-on execution

What the Client Offers

• Competitive executive-level salary and benefits package
• Hybrid working arrangements (with flexibility around onsite presence in Street, Somerset)
• Opportunity to lead a global team within an iconic, heritage-rich brand
• A pivotal role in shaping financial governance during Clarks’ landmark 200th year
• Occasional international travel (1–2 times per year)

If you are a senior finance professional seeking a global leadership opportunity within a world-renowned brand, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to Oliver Price at Citadel Source at oliver@citadelsource.com for a confidential discussion.