Head of Accounting

Head of Accounting

Full-Time 55000 - 68000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Hays

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a small finance team and manage monthly accounts for a large charity.
  • Company: Join a prominent Liverpool-based charity making a real difference in the community.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, excellent pension, and flexible hybrid working options.
  • Why this job: Be part of a meaningful mission while developing your accounting skills in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant with experience in management accounts and leading finance teams.
  • Other info: This role is perfect for those looking to step into a Financial Controller position.

The predicted salary is between 55000 - 68000 £ per year.

A large Liverpool-based charity is looking to recruit a Head of Accounting to report to an experienced Finance Director.

As Head of Accounting, you will manage a small team and ensure accurate and timely delivery of monthly management accounts for this large and complex charitable organisation. You will be responsible for all balance sheet control and cashflow management. You will ensure internal controls and processes are working efficiently and design new ones as the organisation grows. You will be responsible for all year-end processes and for coordination with the auditors. You will oversee the VAT return and ensure all other external reporting is completed accurately and on a timely basis.

We are looking for a qualified accountant who has experience of preparing management accounts and of leading a small finance team. You should have the desire to work for an organisation in the not-for-profit sector and have good financial accounting and technical accounting skills. Whilst this may be your first Financial Controller level role, you will have significant experience of working in a complex accounting environment.

In addition to a competitive salary you will receive an excellent pension and holiday entitlement. Flexible and hybrid working patterns are offered.

If you are interested in this Financial Controller Job, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays

Contact Detail:

Hays Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Accounting

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the charity sector. Attend local finance events or join relevant online forums to connect with individuals who work in similar roles. This can provide you with insights into the organisation's culture and expectations.

✨Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and reporting requirements for charities. Understanding these nuances will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to the sector during interviews.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experience managing a finance team. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, as this role requires strong management skills.

✨Tip Number 4

Research the charity's mission and values thoroughly. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs can set you apart from other candidates and show your genuine interest in the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Accounting

Qualified Accountant
Management Accounting
Financial Reporting
Team Leadership
Balance Sheet Control
Cashflow Management
Internal Controls Design
Year-End Processes
Audit Coordination
VAT Returns
External Reporting
Technical Accounting Skills
Attention to Detail
Communication Skills
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in preparing management accounts and leading finance teams. Emphasise any relevant qualifications and your desire to work in the not-for-profit sector.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that explains why you are passionate about working for a charity. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your financial accounting skills and your ability to manage complex accounting environments.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your previous roles that involved balance sheet control, cashflow management, and internal controls. Use specific examples to illustrate your achievements in these areas.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Head of Accounting role.

How to prepare for a job interview at Hays

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Head of Accounting, you'll be managing a small team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight any experience you have in mentoring or developing team members.

✨Demonstrate Your Technical Expertise

Make sure to brush up on your financial accounting and technical skills. Be ready to discuss specific accounting principles and practices, especially those relevant to the not-for-profit sector. This will show that you are well-prepared for the complexities of the role.

✨Understand the Organisation's Mission

Research the charity's mission and values before the interview. Showing genuine interest in their work and how your role as Head of Accounting can support their goals will set you apart from other candidates. It demonstrates that you're not just looking for a job, but are passionate about contributing to their cause.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Prepare for scenarios related to cash flow management, balance sheet control, and internal processes. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated similar challenges.

Head of Accounting
Hays
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