Location: Southend on Sea, Essex Hours: Monday to Friday 9am – 5:30pm Salary: £55,000 - £65,000 per annum Our client, a dynamic, forward-thinking company experiencing rapid growth, are looking for a proactive Head of Finance/Accountant to join them on their journey. They are looking for someone with bold ambitions and, as they scale, they need a strategic and hands on Accountant to lead the financial function and help shape the future of the business. Previous experience as an accountant is a must! Job Description: • Financial Reporting & Analysis: Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards. • Budgeting & Forecasting: Develop and manage budgets, cash flow forecasts, and financial projections to support business planning and growth initiatives. • Cost Management: Monitor and analyse operational costs, identifying opportunities for savings and process efficiencies. • Accounts Management: • Oversee day-to-day finance operations, including accounts payable/receivable, payroll, tax compliance, and month-end processes. • Strategic Financial Advice: Act as a strategic advisor to the leadership team, offering financial insight to support decision-making, investment planning, and project evaluation. • Audit & Compliance: Maintain strong internal controls and ensure adherence to all financial regulations, audit requirements, and statutory obligations. • Software & Tools: Leverage financial systems and tools to improve reporting accuracy, automate tasks, and enhance operational efficiency. Essentials: • Experience working with Xero software • Strong leadership and communication skills • ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification • Proven experience in a senior finance role, ideally in a growth environment • Excellent analytical and strategic thinking abilities Previous experience of being an Accountant and been in a leading role