At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance function, manage cash flow, and oversee statutory accounts.
- Company: Established professional services group in London with a calm work environment.
- Benefits: Salary up to £95,000, comprehensive benefits, and hybrid working.
- Other info: Direct line to the MD and real ownership of your function.
- Why this job: Enjoy a senior role without the stress of overtime or late nights.
- Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with solid post-qualification experience.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 95000 £ per year.
A long-established and successful London-based professional services group is looking for an experienced, qualified accountant to take ownership of their group finance function. It's a genuinely senior role. You'll report directly to the MD, run the show on cash flow, statutory accounts, Board reporting and group compliance, and have an Accounts Assistant to support you. But the environment is calm and the hours are honest. There is no overtime expected. You leave at 5pm and the work stays at the office.
The role:
- Day-to-day running of the Group's accounts and cash management
- Statutory accounts, VAT returns, monthly approval of outsourced payroll
- Rolling 18-month cash flow forecasting with commentary
- Quarterly Board management accounts pack with commentary
- Service charge accounts for assets held within the Group (commercial and residential, TPI/RICS)
- Nominated officer for GDPR, AML and ICO matters
- Admin support to the Company Secretary across UK Group entities
- Main point of contact for external accountants, banks and the offshore parent
- Line management and mentoring of one Accounts Assistant
Who this will suit:
- ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified, with solid post-qualification experience
- Someone who genuinely enjoys being in the detail, not just reviewing it
- Calm, methodical, commercially aware, with high attention to detail
- Service charge accounting experience is a strong plus
- Confident on Sage50, intermediate Excel (including ODBC)
- Happy to take on the company secretarial admin element alongside the finance work
Who this won't suit:
- This isn't a growth or transformation role, and it isn't a job for someone who wants to delegate the day-to-day and only handle the strategic piece.
- The right person here is experienced, hands-on and looking for substance without the stress.
What's on offer:
- £80,000 to £95,000 salary
- Comprehensive benefits package and pension
- Hybrid working from a London base
- Genuinely settled hours, no overtime expected
- Direct line to the MD and real ownership of the function
- A stable, professional environment with a strong reputation behind it
If you've done the busy phase of your career and now want a senior role with balance, get in touch for a confidential conversation.
Head of Accounts employer: Pro Talent
Join a long-established and successful professional services group in London as the Head of Accounts, where you can enjoy a calm and supportive work environment that prioritises work-life balance. With a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, this role offers genuine ownership of the finance function, direct access to the MD, and the opportunity to mentor an Accounts Assistant, all while maintaining settled hours without the stress of overtime. This is an excellent opportunity for experienced accountants seeking meaningful employment in a stable and reputable organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Accounts
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who might know about opportunities at companies like the one you're eyeing. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research the company’s values and recent news. This way, you can show them you’re not just another candidate but someone genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a mate to do mock interviews with you. Focus on articulating your experience and how it aligns with the role of Head of Accounts. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Accounts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your qualifications like ACA, ACCA, or CIMA, and any relevant experience with cash flow management and statutory accounts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this calm and methodical role. Share examples of how you've successfully managed accounts and led teams, and don’t forget to mention your love for detail!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since we're looking for someone confident on Sage50 and intermediate Excel, make sure to include these skills prominently in your application. If you have experience with service charge accounting, definitely highlight that too!
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 fantastic opportunity without any hassle.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pro Talent
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Accounts, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics related to cash flow, statutory accounts, and VAT returns. Be ready to discuss how you've managed these in previous roles and any challenges you faced.
✨Showcase Your Detail Orientation
This role requires someone who enjoys being in the detail. Prepare examples that highlight your attention to detail, especially in service charge accounting or similar areas. Use specific instances where your meticulousness made a difference.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Sage50 and Excel
Since the job mentions confidence in Sage50 and intermediate Excel skills, make sure you're comfortable discussing your experience with these tools. Perhaps even prepare a quick example of how you've used them effectively in past roles.
✨Emphasise Your Calm Approach
The environment is described as calm and methodical. During the interview, convey your ability to maintain composure under pressure. Share stories that illustrate how you've successfully navigated stressful situations while keeping a level head.
