Job Description
Temp to perm Project Accountant
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Project Accountant to take ownership of post-award financial management across a varied and high-value portfolio of research, consultancy, and externally funded projects, supporting annual income of approximately £45m.Working closely with academics, researchers and project teams, you will ensure accurate financial reporting, timely invoicing and claims, contract compliance, and effective financial controls. You will also analyse project performance, monitor variances, support audits, and drive continuous improvement across financial processes. The role includes managing a small team of two, ensuring high-quality, customer-focused service delivery.Key Responsibilities
* Provide financial advice and guidance to academics and project teams.
* Review project pipelines to identify financial risks and opportunities.
* Ensure compliance with FRS 102, VAT, and corporation tax requirements.
* Produce accurate and timely project invoices and funding claims.
* Prepare WIP/Income-in-Advance and support forecasting cycles.
* Monitor variances and escalate potential financial issues.
* Resolve contractual and funding-related risks.
* Liaise with external auditors and produce supporting financial documentation.
* Manage staff funding records and authorise recruitment where budgeted.
* Lead, support, and develop a team of two, ensuring effective workload management and performance.
Candidate Criteria
* CCAB/CIMA-qualified accountant with 7+ years’ experience in large, complex organisations.
* Strong budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and advanced Excel capability.
* Experience with large finance systems and the ability to interpret complex contract terms.
* Proven staff management, stakeholder engagement, and excellent communication skills.
* Desirable: Higher Education or research-funding experience, Agresso knowledge, and understanding of VAT/corporation tax in research or project environments.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. # 4781807