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- Tasks: Manage accounts and support high-value research activities in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Leading research organisation in higher education and life sciences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, hybrid working, and 33 days holiday.
- Why this job: Make a global impact while developing your finance skills in a collaborative team.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification or AAT Level 4, with proven finance experience.
- Other info: Opportunity for leadership and growth in a respected research environment.
A leading research-led organisation within the higher education and life sciences sector is seeking an Accounts Manager to join its finance team on a fixed-term basis until September 2026. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a fast-paced, complex environment supporting high-value research activity with global impact.
Reporting to a senior finance lead, you will provide comprehensive accounts management support across general ledger and research grant activity. The role combines hands-on financial processing with advisory responsibilities and people management.
Key responsibilities include:- Managing day-to-day accounting queries and supporting month-end and year-end processes
- Monitoring and reconciling general ledger accounts and supporting budget holders
- Identifying and explaining variances, risks, and forecast overspends
- Translating financial information for non-financial stakeholders
- Liaising with senior academics and project leads on budgets, forecasts, and grant pipelines
- Supporting research grant applications, including costings and compliance with funder terms
- Assisting with debt collection and resolving financial queries promptly
- Identifying and implementing process improvements
- Line managing 2–3 staff members and deputising for the Finance Manager when required
The successful candidate will be an experienced finance professional who is confident operating in a busy, deadline-driven environment and comfortable working with complex funding streams.
Essential requirements:- Degree-level qualification or AAT Level 4 (or equivalent experience)
- Proven experience in an accounts or finance environment
- Strong Excel and general IT skills
- Experience working to tight deadlines and managing competing priorities
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage non-finance colleagues
- Line management experience
- Background in the public sector, higher education, or non-profit organisations
- Experience with research grant administration, including pre- and post-award support
- Familiarity with large or complex finance systems
What's on Offer: Competitive salary and generous pension, Hybrid working model, 33 days + Bank Holidays (Pro-rata), Supportive, inclusive working culture, Opportunity to work in a highly respected research environment.
This role would suit someone looking to deepen their experience in research finance while taking on leadership responsibility within a collaborative team.
For more information, please contact Kul Mahal on 07885 688293 or email. Closing date for applications is Sunday 22nd February with interviews taking place shortly after.
Accounts Manager in Cambridge employer: Interaction - Huntingdon
Contact Detail:
Interaction - Huntingdon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Manager in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the higher education and finance sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the organisation thoroughly and understand their mission in the research landscape. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around managing budgets and supporting grant applications.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your Excel skills! If you get the chance, demonstrate your proficiency during interviews or assessments. Bring examples of how you've used Excel to manage accounts or analyse financial data effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you ace your application and stand out. Plus, it’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Manager in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Accounts Manager role. Highlight your finance background, especially any experience with research grants or managing teams, as this will catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your experience aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your ability to communicate financial info to non-financial folks!
Showcase Your Excel Skills: Since strong Excel skills are essential for this position, consider mentioning specific projects where you’ve used Excel to manage budgets or analyse data. We love seeing practical examples of your expertise!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Interaction - Huntingdon
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Accounts Manager, you'll need to be comfortable with financial data. Brush up on your knowledge of general ledger accounts and research grant activity. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and reconciled accounts in previous roles.
✨Communicate Clearly
You'll be liaising with non-financial stakeholders, so practice translating complex financial information into simple terms. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated financial concepts to colleagues outside of finance.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves line management, prepare to talk about your experience leading teams. Share specific instances where you've supported staff development or improved team performance, as this will demonstrate your capability to manage others effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially around managing tight deadlines and competing priorities. Prepare examples of how you've handled similar situations in the past, focusing on your approach to identifying risks and implementing process improvements.