Job Purpose
The Group Financial Accountant will lead a small team to ensure strong financial control, effective policies and procedures, and high-quality reporting across the organisation and its subsidiaries. The role will manage the group consolidation process and drive efficiency, consistency, and compliance with UK accounting standards.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Accounting
* Lead financial accounting and year-end processes, ensuring timely and accurate external reporting.
* Act as the organisation's technical expert on financial accounting, staying up to date with accounting standards and implementing changes where needed.
* Provide guidance on accounting treatments for contracts, activities, and subsidiaries.
* Maintain and develop the Chart of Accounts in collaboration with financial planning colleagues.
External Reporting
* Prepare consolidated Group Financial Statements and Annual Report.
* Coordinate subsidiary accounts to ensure accuracy and consistency.
* Oversee external reporting to regulators and statutory bodies.
* Manage corporation tax submissions for all group entities, with support from external advisors where necessary.
* Lead the relationship with external auditors to ensure smooth and efficient audit processes.
Internal Reporting & Controls
* Lead balance sheet reviews, ensuring all balances are supported and robust.
* Manage the month-end close process, working closely with financial planning teams.
* Deliver variance analysis and forecasting of central costs and adjustments.
* Support long-term forecasting through technical accounting insights.
Leadership & Team Management
* Lead and develop a team of three accountants (covering areas such as fixed assets, donations, and subsidiary accounting).
* Set clear objectives, conduct performance reviews, and provide coaching to support professional development.
* Drive continuous improvement, streamlining processes and adopting new technology where appropriate.
* Foster collaboration and strong working relationships across finance and subsidiaries.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Qualified accountant (ICAEW, CIPFA, CIMA, ACCA or equivalent).
* Significant experience in a large, complex financial environment, including statutory accounts preparation (IFRS/FRS102).
* Strong technical knowledge of accounting treatments and financial control.
* Experience managing people and leading teams.
* Proficiency with Excel and financial systems.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex issues.
* Ability to work under pressure, prioritise workloads, and deliver to deadlines.
* Commitment to professional development and continuous improvement.
Desirable:
* Experience working in the not-for-profit, education, or public sector.
* Experience with group structures and subsidiary reporting.
* Experience of governance structures with non-executives.
* Knowledge of Agresso/Unit 4 ERP or similar financial systems.
Offer
* Competitive salary (£45,000 – £55,000 depending on experience).
* Permanent, full-time contract.
* Flexible working arrangements available.
* Wide range of employee benefits and wellbeing support.
* Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.