Group Financial Accountant

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 ResponsibilitiesFinancial 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 SpecificationEssential:

• 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.