At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the accounting team and ensure accurate financial reporting for UK & Ireland.
- Company: Join a dynamic company focused on financial excellence and team collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by leading a talented team and improving financial processes.
- Qualifications: Degree in Accounting or Finance, with 10+ years of experience and leadership skills.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment with transformation projects.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
About the Role
We are looking for a Head of Accounting to lead the UK & Ireland accounting function. You will manage the accounting team, ensure accurate financial reporting, and oversee day‑to‑day finance operations. This role combines hands‑on accounting work with team leadership and process improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting (US GAAP and UK GAAP).
- Oversee preparation of statutory accounts and support external audits.
- Manage general ledger accuracy, provisions, and key balance sheet accounts.
- Act as the main contact for auditors, tax advisors, banks, and authorities.
- Improve and streamline accounting processes.
- Support transformation and efficiency projects within the finance function.
- Work closely with business teams to ensure strong financial controls and compliance.
What You’ll Need
- Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- Professional qualification preferred (ACCA, CIMA, CA, CPA).
- 10+ years of accounting and financial reporting experience.
- At least 5 years managing people or leading teams.
- Strong Excel skills; experience with Oracle, Blackline, or OneStream is a bonus.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work well with different stakeholders.
- A structured, detail‑focused, and proactive working style.
Nice-to-Have Experience
- Private equity or M&A environments.
- Managed service operations.
- Leading or supporting major finance transformation projects.
- Audit background.
Key Leadership Skills
- Builds strong, effective teams.
- Handles complex information and problems.
- Takes accountability.
- Communicates clearly.
- Balances different stakeholder needs.
Head of Accounting in Birmingham employer: Gleeson Recruitment Group
Contact Detail:
Gleeson Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Accounting in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who might know about opportunities in accounting leadership. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that Head of Accounting role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've improved processes or led teams in the past. We want to see your hands-on experience shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! During interviews, make sure you articulate your thoughts clearly and demonstrate how you can balance the needs of different stakeholders. This is key for a role that involves liaising with auditors and tax advisors.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our company.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Accounting in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Accounting role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial reporting and team management, and don’t forget to mention any specific qualifications like ACCA or CIMA that we’re looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In your application, emphasise your leadership experience. We want to see how you've built strong teams and handled complex financial challenges, so share examples that demonstrate your ability to lead effectively.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your cover letter, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure you articulate your passion for the role and how your skills align with our needs without rambling on.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the StudySmarter team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gleeson Recruitment Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Accounting, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial reporting. Brush up on US GAAP and UK GAAP standards, and be ready to discuss how you've ensured accurate financial reporting in your previous roles. Prepare examples that showcase your attention to detail and structured approach.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a team, so it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Think of specific instances where you've built strong teams or improved processes. Be prepared to discuss your management style and how you handle complex information and problems.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might be asked about how you interact with auditors, tax advisors, and other stakeholders, so have examples ready that illustrate your ability to balance different needs.
✨Prepare for Transformation Projects
If you've led or supported finance transformation projects, make sure to highlight these experiences. Discuss the challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will show your proactive working style and your ability to drive efficiency within the finance function.