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- Tasks: Lead a team of accountants and oversee financial operations for UK entities.
- Company: Join a growing business focused on financial success in Northern Europe.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for professional growth and a collaborative work culture.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on financial health while mentoring a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; 3-5 years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: Ideal for proactive individuals with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Chief Accountant to join the finance team for the Northern Europe Cluster. This role will be responsible for leading a small team of accountants and overseeing accounting operations for the UK legal entities. This position offers the opportunity to have a significant impact on the financial health of the business in the region.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the preparation and accuracy of monthly, quarterly, half-year, and annual financial reports, ensuring compliance with UK GAAP, IFRS, and internal standards.
- Manage the monthly closing process to ensure timely submission and accuracy of financial statements.
- Prepare consolidated financial statements for the relevant entities.
- Compliance and Audit: Ensure compliance with local tax and regulatory requirements (VAT, corporation tax, payroll, and travel licensing). Coordinate internal and external audits, working closely with auditors to ensure adherence to best practices and timely reporting. Keep up-to-date with compliance requirements for Companies House and other government authorities.
- Accounts Payable/Receivable & Cash Management: Supervise the management of accounts payable/receivable functions, cash flow, and bank reconciliations, including intercompany transactions. Develop and implement strategies for effective cash management and optimize working capital.
- Collaborations: Work with the Finance and Administration Manager to prepare annual budgets and monthly forecasts. Partner with the HR Manager to ensure accurate payroll processing. Collaborate with HQ on general accounting improvements.
- Process Improvement: Identify and implement opportunities for enhancing financial processes and internal controls. Mentor and develop team members to foster a culture of continuous improvement. Work with cross-functional teams (sales, marketing, operations) to align financial objectives and drive performance.
Qualifications & Skills
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. Professional qualifications (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) are a plus.
- Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role. Strong knowledge of UK GAAP and IFRS; familiarity with French GAAP is a plus.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational abilities. Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- Personal Attributes: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative approach. A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset, high integrity, and commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
This is a great opportunity to contribute to the financial success of an innovative and growing business. If you are passionate about finance and looking for a leadership role with opportunities for professional growth, we would love to hear from you.
Chief Accountant employer: Approach People Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Approach People Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in accounting roles. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in UK GAAP and IFRS.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific ERP systems mentioned in the job description, such as SAP or Oracle. Consider taking online courses or tutorials to enhance your proficiency, as this will demonstrate your commitment to the role and make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences during the interview. Think of examples where you've successfully managed a team or improved financial processes, as this will showcase your ability to lead and mentor others effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on compliance requirements and changes in tax regulations that may affect the role. Being knowledgeable about current laws will not only help you in the interview but also show your proactive approach to the responsibilities of the Chief Accountant position.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in accounting, particularly any leadership roles. Emphasise your knowledge of UK GAAP and IFRS, as well as your proficiency with ERP systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for finance and leadership. Mention specific achievements in previous roles that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and improve financial processes.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Clearly list your educational background and any professional qualifications such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA. This will help establish your credibility and expertise in the field.
Highlight Soft Skills: Don’t forget to mention your interpersonal and communication skills. The role requires collaboration with various departments, so showcasing your ability to work well with others is crucial.
How to prepare for a job interview at Approach People Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Chief Accountant, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any mentoring experiences and how you foster a culture of continuous improvement.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
Make sure you are well-versed in UK GAAP and IFRS, as these are crucial for the role. Be ready to answer technical questions and possibly solve accounting scenarios on the spot to showcase your expertise.
✨Prepare for Compliance Questions
Given the importance of compliance in this role, brush up on local tax regulations and audit processes. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles and how you would approach audits.
✨Highlight Process Improvement Initiatives
The job involves identifying opportunities for enhancing financial processes. Think of specific examples where you've implemented process improvements or optimised workflows, and be ready to share these during the interview.
