At a Glance
- Tasks: Produce accurate financial reports and support audits in a dynamic education trust.
- Company: Join Harris Federation, a leading UK education trust focused on improving young people's outcomes.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, and excellent professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a strong culture of collaboration await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while contributing to a meaningful cause.
- Qualifications: Experience in accounting, understanding of UK GAAP, and proficiency in financial software.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Join Harris Federation, one of the UK's leading education trusts, and play a key role in delivering high quality financial reporting and control across a growing organisation. We are looking for an experienced, detail-focused finance professional with strong analytical and reporting skills. In return, you'll benefit from a collaborative environment, excellent professional development, and the opportunity to contribute to an organisation dedicated to improving outcomes for young people. If you are ready to take the next step in your finance career, we would welcome your application.
MAIN AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
Reporting to the Head of Financial Accounting, you will take ownership of producing accurate management and statutory accounts, supporting audits, and ensuring compliance with UK GAAP and charity sector requirements. This is a varied and impactful role, where you will lead on month-end processes, balance sheet reconciliations, VAT returns, and cash management, while also driving continuous improvement in financial systems and controls. Working closely with stakeholders, you'll provide clear financial insight to support decision-making across the Federation.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- An understanding of UK GAAP
- Experience with financial systems and ERP software (e.g. SAP, Oracle, Sage) along with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced functions
- Ideally 2-3 years of post-graduation experience in an accounting role, preferably within a commercial environment
- ACA, ACCA, or CIMA (or equivalent) either in progress or recently obtained
- A degree in Accounting, Finance or a related discipline, with a strong academic record
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
Harris has a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level. You will also have access to a variety of benefits, support programmes and initiatives including:
- Excellent opportunities for continuous professional development and career progression
- Annual performance and loyalty bonus
- Pension scheme (Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme) with generous employer contribution
- 26 days' annual leave (inclusive of our Christmas Eve closure day) plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 2 years' service, or equivalent for staff on term time contracts
- Harris Wellbeing Cash Plan including cover for routine and specialist healthcare
- Employee Assistance Programme for free and confidential advice
- Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
- Wide range of shopping, leisure, and travel discounts
- 20% off at Tapi Carpets, exclusive to Harris employees
- Interest-free ICT and season ticket loans
For most non-teaching staff based at our Head Office in East Croydon, we also offer lifestyle friendly working arrangements including flexible start and end times, and hybrid working with two days from home and three days on site.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Safeguarding Notice: The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed. The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected. We aim to be an inclusive employer that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to providing a fair, equitable and mutually supportive learning and working environment.
Financial Accountant in Croydon employer: Harris Federation
Harris Federation is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that prioritises professional development and career progression for its employees. With a strong commitment to improving outcomes for young people, the organisation provides a range of benefits including generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and flexible working arrangements, making it an ideal place for finance professionals looking to make a meaningful impact while advancing their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Accountant in Croydon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who work in education or similar sectors. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on UK GAAP and financial reporting standards. We want you to feel confident discussing your experience with management accounts and audits, so practice common interview questions related to these topics.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Bring examples of how you've used financial data to drive decisions in past roles. This will help you stand out as someone who can provide clear financial insights, just like the role requires.
✨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 about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Accountant in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Financial Accountant role. Highlight your experience with UK GAAP and any financial systems you've used, like SAP or Oracle. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about finance and how you can contribute to our mission at Harris Federation. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical skills, make sure to include examples of how you've used these in past roles. Whether it's through reporting or decision-making support, we want to see your thought process in action!
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 gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at Harris Federation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Federation
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your understanding of UK GAAP and be ready to discuss how it applies to financial reporting. Prepare examples from your past experience where you ensured compliance or improved financial processes.
✨Showcase Your Software Skills
Familiarise yourself with the financial systems mentioned in the job description, like SAP or Oracle. If you've used similar ERP software, be prepared to explain how you leveraged it for financial reporting and analysis.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Think about potential scenarios related to month-end processes or balance sheet reconciliations. Be ready to walk through your approach to these tasks, highlighting your analytical skills and attention to detail.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with stakeholders, prepare to discuss how you've successfully collaborated in previous roles. Share specific examples of how you provided financial insights that supported decision-making.
