Our finance teams keep internal spending on‑track, which makes them critical to our work. As a Financial Accountant, you could be working in one of the various teams across our finance function.
Responsibilities
* Perform key month‑end activities, including journal approvals, support for budget profiling, forecasting and analysis for senior managers.
* Maintain financial systems and controls, ensuring accurate and reliable reporting.
* Prepare and explain management reports, including monthly balance sheet reconciliations, annual report data and NAO disclosure checklist.
* Develop detailed understanding of financial objectives, transactions and business areas in the Financial Operations team, managing accounts payable, receivable, expense and cash management services.
* Advise business units on financial processes, support transaction‑processing services and oversee audit requests.
* Build and lead a small team, fostering collaboration with stakeholders.
Requirements
* Part‑qualified in ACCA, CIMA or equivalent (completed Applied Knowledge and Applied Skills modules of ACCA or Operational and Management levels of CIMA).
* Some supervisory experience and working toward a CCAB or CIMA qualification.
* Demonstrable experience in a similar role within the public sector.
* Strong motivation to work for MI5 as a Financial Accountant.
* British citizenship or dual British nationality. Must hold the highest security clearance (Developed Vetting).
* Compliance with a strict drug policy – no recreational drugs and declaration of prior use at the relevant stage.
Training and Development
From the moment you join us, you will receive full support, including funded training, paid study‑leave and a generous paid study‑leave package tailored to your qualification. Your line manager and a range of experienced staff will provide guidance, access to internal communities and mentors.
Benefits
* Starting salary of £47,677 (London) or £49,065 (Cheltenham) and additional benefits including:
* 25 days annual leave, rising to 30 days after 5 years of service, plus 10.5 days public and privilege holidays.
* Opportunity for recognition through the employee performance scheme.
* Dedicated development budget.
* Interest‑free season ticket loan.
* Excellent pension scheme.
* Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
* On‑site facilities such as gym, restaurant and coffee bars (depending on location).
* Paid parental and adoption leave.
* Interest‑free relocation loan for London accommodation.
Location
The role is based in London or Cheltenham. Applicants must be able to live within commuting distance of the chosen location.
Flexible Working
Due to the sensitive nature of this role, it is office‑based only and home‑working is not possible. Full‑time hours are up to 37 hours, with options for part‑time (minimum 4 days), compressed hours and flexible start/finish times.
Additional Information
Applicants should note that the application process is lengthy, with a 6–9 month timeline that includes vetting. It is advisable to maintain current employment until a final offer is received.
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