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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic accounting team and ensure accurate financial reporting.
- Company: Join Mars Veterinary Health, a leader in veterinary care across Europe.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in accounting with strong people management experience.
- Other info: Collaborative culture prioritising accountability and continuous development.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
The Head of Accounting UK & I ensures the accuracy and integrity of our financial reporting, provides leadership and development for the team, and oversees various accounting and financial operations activities, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and company policies. They will collaborate closely with MVHE Group Accounting and Financial Operations teams and drive deployment of various transformation projects in cooperation with Regional, Global and Corporate Accounting & Reporting teams, whilst ensuring excellence in execution of financial operations in line with KPIs, SLAs and Stakeholder experience. This role requires a hands‑on leader who actively engages in accounting operations while supervising team workflows to ensure all deadlines are achieved. Reporting to the Director of R2R Operations, this role offers a hybrid working arrangement (50%) in our Birmingham (Solihull) office with occasional travel across other Group locations across EU for knowledge sharing or leadership experience.
Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a team of 10-15 accounting professionals and contractors.
- Set up and reshape critical financial processes in a dynamic and growing environment.
- Ensure the accuracy of periodic financial reporting to Mars Group (US GAAP) and the statutory (UK GAAP) annual financial statements.
- Present balance sheet movements to the management team.
- Serve as the main point of contact for authorities, banks, internal and external auditors, and tax advisors.
- Identify and monitor provisions and maintain general ledger accounts.
- Handle ongoing business transactions and ensure compliance with statutory reporting requirements.
- Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams including market operations, business controllers, clinics and the MVHE to ensure effective financial processes, compliance and reporting.
- Initiate and lead projects to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness within the finance function.
Qualifications
- University degree in Economics, Finance or Accounting.
- Professional certification such as ACCA, CIMA, CA or CPA is preferred.
Experience
- Minimum 10+ years of experience in accounting and financial reporting, including at least 5 years in people‑management roles.
- Proven experience in structuring, optimizing and scaling accounting processes.
- Strong proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel.
- Experience with Oracle, Blackline and/or OneStream is an advantage.
- Fluency in English.
- Strong communication, stakeholder management and collaboration skills.
- Structured, detail‑oriented and able to work independently in a complex environment.
Additional Advantages
- Experience in private‑equity‑backed or M&A‑driven organizations.
- Exposure to managed‑service operations.
- Participation in or leadership of large‑scale finance transformation initiatives.
- Background in audit.
Key Competencies
- Builds Effective Teams
- Manages Complexity
- Ensures Accountability
- Communicates Effectively
- Balances Stakeholders
Company
Mars Veterinary Health (MVH) Europe is a family of leading veterinary care providers committed to creating a better world for pets. Our network includes trusted brands such as AniCura and Linnaeus, operating over 500 animal hospitals and clinics across 17 European countries. Together, our teams deliver high‑quality, modern veterinary care for companion animals, ensuring peace of mind for pet owners through excellent access and patient safety. AniCura, our largest brand in Europe, provides care to over three million patients each year through 12,500 dedicated professionals. Linnaeus, operating primarily in the UK and Ireland, is home to over 6,000 associates empowered to deliver exceptional care through a culture of collaboration, clinical excellence and continuous development. At MVH Europe, we prioritise a culture of accountability, inclusion and wellbeing. We believe our purpose – to make a BETTER WORLD FOR PETS – starts with building a better world for our people. We support our teams through strong governance, comprehensive wellbeing programs and a shared passion for delivering exceptional outcomes in veterinary care.
Head of Accounting UK & I employer: Linnaeus Group
Contact Detail:
Linnaeus Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Accounting UK & I
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who work at Mars Veterinary Health or similar companies. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding of UK GAAP and US GAAP. We want you to showcase your expertise in financial reporting and team leadership, so practice articulating your experience clearly.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the MVH family.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Accounting UK & I
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Head of Accounting role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant financial reporting expertise to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about accounting and how your background aligns with our mission at Mars Veterinary Health. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've improved processes or led successful projects in your previous roles. We love seeing results!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Linnaeus Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Accounting, you'll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of financial reporting standards like US GAAP and UK GAAP. Brush up on these regulations and be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires leading a team of 10-15 accounting professionals. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, developed talent, and reshaped financial processes in dynamic environments. Highlight your people management experience!
✨Be Ready for Collaboration
Collaboration is key in this position. Think of instances where you've worked closely with cross-functional teams or led projects that required input from various stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you fostered effective communication and teamwork.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage complexity. Think about challenges you've faced in accounting operations and how you navigated them while ensuring deadlines were met and quality was maintained.