Staff Accountant in London

The Staff Accountant is responsible for performing complex accounting functions, maintaining accurate financial records, and supporting the organization’s financial reporting, compliance, and internal control activities. This position exercises independent judgment and discretion in applying accounting principles, analyzing financial data, and resolving discrepancies. The Staff Accountant partners with Finance leadership and cross-functional teams to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant financial operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform general ledger accounting functions, including account analysis, reconciliations, and journal entry preparation.
• Prepare, review, and post journal entries in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
• Assist with preparation of monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial statements and supporting schedules.
• Administer and oversee the organization’s purchasing and invoicing system, ensuring accuracy, compliance with internal controls, and proper financial coding.

Reconciliations & Analysis

• Reconcile balance sheet and income statement accounts; investigate and resolve discrepancies.
• Analyze financial data and variances, identify trends, and provide explanations and recommendations.
• Support fixed asset accounting, depreciation schedules, and asset reconciliations as applicable.

Month-End, Quarter-End & Year-End Close

• Support timely and accurate close processes, including preparation of schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with internal accounting policies and procedures throughout the close cycle.

Compliance & Internal Controls

• Apply and interpret accounting standards, policies, and internal controls to ensure compliance and financial integrity.
• Assist with internal, external, and regulatory audits by preparing documentation, schedules, and audit responses.
• Identify control gaps or accounting issues and recommend corrective actions or process improvements.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Utilize accounting systems and financial software to maintain accurate records and reporting.
• Coordinate with software vendors for purposes of system maintenance, implementations, upgrades, and testing activities.
• Document accounting procedures and workflows to support consistency and continuity.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with other departments to resolve accounting issues and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Provide guidance on accounting procedures and financial data interpretation as appropriate.
• Perform other duties consistent with the exempt nature of the position.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, and reconciliations.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion in analyzing financial information and resolving discrepancies.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High degree of professionalism and discretion in handling confidential financial information.
• Proficiency with NetSuite.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Proficiency with accounting and financial systems.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field required.
• Three to five years of progressively responsible accounting experience required.
• CPA or progress toward CPA certification preferred.