Accounting ManagerFinance Department | Head Office
Reporting to: Central TreasurerGrade: Deputy Departmental Head
Job PurposeThe Accounting Manager is responsible for delivering accurate and timely financial reporting in line with internal policies and statutory requirements. The role oversees month-end and year-end processes, accounts payable and receivable, tax compliance, and payroll oversight, while acting as the key liaison for external audit.
The position also leads and develops the Accounts team, ensuring a high-quality finance service that supports organisational objectives through strong financial control, reporting, and continuous improvement.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Accounting & Reporting*Maintain accurate and complete accounting records.
*Lead month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring deadlines are met and outputs are of a high standard.
*Produce timely and accurate financial reports in line with UK accounting standards and internal policies.
*Monitor balance sheet accounts, investigating and resolving variances.
*Maintain and enhance internal financial controls, ensuring audit compliance.
Accounts Payable & Receivable*Oversee accounts payable and receivable functions, ensuring accurate and timely processing.
*Ensure effective supplier management, payment processes, and debtor recovery.
*Identify and implement improvements to processes and controls.
Tax Compliance*Prepare and submit VAT returns and other tax filings accurately and on time.
*Ensure compliance with HMRC regulations across all financial activities.
*Liaise with external advisors on complex tax matters.
Audit & Assurance*Act as the primary contact for external auditors.
*Prepare audit schedules and supporting documentation.
*Coordinate audit processes and respond to queries efficiently.
*Support implementation of audit recommendations.
Payroll Oversight*Oversee payroll operations to ensure accurate and timely processing.
*Review payroll reports, reconciliations, and journals.
*Ensure correct treatment of pensions, statutory payments, and payroll taxes.
Budgeting & Financial Planning*Coordinate the annual budgeting process.
*Monitor performance against budgets, providing variance analysis and insights.
*Support budget holders in managing and understanding financial performance.
Leadership & Team Management*Provide leadership, direction, and coaching to the Accounts team.
*Set clear expectations, monitor performance, and ensure accountability.
*Foster a culture of accuracy, ownership, and continuous improvement.
*Delegate effectively and support staff development.
*Manage recruitment, training, conduct, and absence matters.
*Encourage collaboration across departments.
Planning & Organisation*Operate within organisational policies and governance frameworks.
*Manage competing priorities and meet strict deadlines.
*Take ownership of finance function performance.
*Build strong internal and external relationships.
*Maintain confidentiality and professional integrity at all times.
Key Relationships*Senior Management Team
*Finance Department and wider staff
*Regional and Head Office teams
*External stakeholders including auditors, HMRC, banks, and advisors
Knowledge & Experience*AAT qualified (or equivalent) or higher qualification.
*Strong knowledge of UK accounting standards (UK GAAP/FRS 102).
*Proven experience in financial accounting, reporting, and audit processes.
*Experience managing month-end/year-end cycles.
*Strong understanding of accounts payable/receivable and payroll processes.
*Experience working with accounting systems (e.g. NetSuite, IRIS or similar).
*Demonstrable experience improving financial processes and controls.
Skills*Strong organisational and prioritisation skills.
*Analytical mindset with problem-solving capability.
*Ability to manage multiple deadlines effectively.
*Advanced Excel and financial systems proficiency.
*Strong leadership, delegation, and team development skills.
*Clear communication and stakeholder management ability.
Behaviours*High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
*Strong personal accountability and ownership.
*Proactive, solution-focused approach.
*Confident and fair decision-making.
*Ability to lead and motivate teams effectively.
*Professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
Additional Information*Flexibility may be required to meet business needs, including occasional travel.
*The role requires commitment to meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality outputs.