At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance.
- Company: Join Mars Veterinary Health, a leader in the veterinary industry with a commitment to diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel across the EU and exposure to innovative financial practices.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving finance transformation in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in accounting, with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Role Overview
The Head of Accounting UK & I ensures the accuracy and integrity of 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 collaborate closely with MVHE Group Accounting and Financial Operations teams and drive deployment of transformation projects in cooperation with Regional, Global and Corporate Accounting & Reporting teams, while ensuring excellence in execution of financial operations, ongoing business transactions and statutory reporting requirements.
Key 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, bank, internal and external auditors, and tax advisors.
- Identify and monitor provisions and maintain general ledger accounts.
- Handle detail-oriented work and work independently in a complex environment.
- Lead large-scale finance transformation initiatives and provide strategic involvement in private equity-backed or M&A-driven organizations.
- Exhibit exposure to managed service operations and a background in audit.
Educational and Professional Qualifications
- University degree in Economics, Finance, or Accounting.
- Professional certification such as ACCA, CIMA, CA, or CPA is preferred.
Experience and Skills
- 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.
Key Competencies
- Builds Effective Teams
- Manages Complexity
- Ensures Accountability
- Communicates Effectively
- Balances Stakeholders
Location & Working Arrangement
Hybrid working arrangement (50%) in the Birmingham (Solihull) office with occasional travel across other Group locations across the EU for knowledge sharing or leadership experience. Reporting to the Director of R2R Operations.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Mars Veterinary Health is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
Head of Accounting UK & I employer: Mars
Mars Veterinary Health is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Birmingham (Solihull) that fosters professional growth and development. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, employees benefit from a hybrid working arrangement and the opportunity to lead transformative finance initiatives within a supportive culture that values diversity and inclusion. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises excellence in financial operations while providing meaningful career advancement opportunities.
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 and accounting sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential employers. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their financial operations and recent news. This will help us tailor your answers to show how you can lead and develop teams effectively, just like they need for the Head of Accounting role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to clearly communicate your experience in managing complex financial processes and leading teams. We recommend rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for talented individuals who can drive transformation projects and excel in financial operations.
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 align with the Head of Accounting role. Highlight your leadership experience and any transformation projects you've led, as these are key to what we're looking for.
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 makes you the perfect fit for our team. Don't forget to mention your experience with financial reporting and compliance!
Showcase Your Team Leadership:Since this role involves leading a team, be sure to include examples of how you've developed and managed teams in the past. We want to see your ability to build effective teams and manage complexity in a dynamic environment.
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 and shows us you're serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mars
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Accounting, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial reporting. Brush up on UK GAAP and US GAAP standards, and be ready to discuss how you've ensured accuracy in previous roles. Prepare examples of how you've handled complex financial situations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a team of 10-15 professionals, so it's crucial to highlight your people management experience. Think of specific instances where you've developed your team or reshaped processes. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and how you motivate others.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
This role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including auditors and tax advisors. Practice articulating how you've successfully managed relationships in the past. Consider preparing a few anecdotes that showcase your communication and stakeholder management skills.
✨Embrace Change and Transformation
With a focus on finance transformation initiatives, be ready to discuss your experience with change management. Highlight any large-scale projects you've led, especially in dynamic environments. Show enthusiasm for driving transformation and how you can contribute to the company's growth.
