Robert Half is delighted to be retained by Lyon and Turnbull to source suitable applicants for a Management Accountant role.
Founded in 1826, Lyon & Turnbull is one of the UK's longest‑established and most respected auction houses - and the oldest in Scotland. The business specialises in high‑quality auctions across fine art, antiques, jewellery, design, and rare collectibles, combining historic heritage with a modern, international auction platform. Operating from its landmark headquarters and main saleroom in Edinburgh, with additional galleries in London and Glasgow, Lyon & Turnbull delivers specialist sales throughout the year and works closely with private collectors, estates, and global buyers.
Primary Function / Position Summary
The Management Accountant plays a key role within the finance team, responsible for the accurate and timely production of monthly management accounts, maintenance of the Fixed Asset Register, and reconciliation of key balance sheet accounts.
This role requires strong communication skills, excellent attention to detail, robust double‑entry bookkeeping, and advanced Excel capability. The ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and support continuous improvement within the finance function is essential. Their office is based at 33 Broughton Place, Edinburgh, with scope for hybrid working as required.
The position also carries line management responsibility for one team member.
Essential Job Functions
Management Accounts
* Prepare and post all necessary month‑end journals, including:
o Accruals
o Prepayments
o Nominal corrections
o Depreciation
o Other month‑end adjustments as required
* Maintain and update the trial balance, P&L and balance sheet Excel files linked to Opera.
* Produce and update the monthly management accounts pack - including narrative and analysis - for submission to the Finance Director.
Nominal Ledger
* Import auction transactions (invoices and settlement statements) into Pegasus Opera.
o Manage month‑end auction transaction cut‑off.
* Process daily journals and transfers within Pegasus.
* Complete monthly reconciliations of key balance sheet debtor and creditor accounts.
* Oversee bank reconciliation as part of the monthly balance sheet review.
VAT & Customs
* Reconcile the trial balance to VAT records and prepare quarterly VAT returns.
* Manage import tax payments to HMRC for Temporary Admission diversions.
Valuation Invoices
* Process ad‑hoc valuation invoices and manage debt recovery as required.
Fixed Asset Register
* Maintain and reconcile the Fixed Asset Register to the trial balance.
* Post monthly depreciation journals to Opera.
Auction Sales
* Take responsibility for a small number of auction sales, including:
o Raising invoices
o Preparing settlements
o Managing client queries
o Overseeing debt collection
o Delegating tasks to junior finance colleagues where appropriate
Additional Responsibilities
* Provide ad‑hoc financial analysis and reporting for Senior Management and Directors.
* Administer company credit card expenditure and report variances versus budget to the Finance Director.
* Prepare P&Ls by auction sale for PSR auction performance meetings.
* Support the documentation, review, and improvement of internal financial controls.
* Prepare weekly cash flow forecasts.
Qualification Requirements
Essential
* Part‑qualified (CA / ACCA / CIMA) or QBE with relevant experience
* Competent Excel user
* Proven experience with P&L, balance sheet, and financial reporting
* Strong analytical, organisational, and communication skills
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
* High level of accuracy and attention to detail
Desirable
* Experience using ERP finance systems, particularly Pegasus Opera
* Knowledge of anti‑money laundering controls
* Experience managing client monies
All third party applications will be forwarded to Lyon and Turnbull's retained advisors, Robert Half, for review.
Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data: roberthalf.com/gb/en/privacy-notice.