At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare monthly management accounts and support annual statutory accounts.
- Company: Join Robert Half, a reputable firm with a long-standing client base in Central London.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working and a competitive salary of Β£65-70k.
- Other info: Candidates from any industry are welcome, but practice-only candidates will not be considered.
- Why this job: Gain exposure to C-Suite executives and enhance your financial expertise in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with broad accounting experience.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 70000 Β£ per year.
Job Description
Financial Accountant
Horsham | Office-Based | Competitive Salary + Benefits
Robert Half is partnering with a leading specialist services organisation to recruit a qualified Financial Accountant. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing and evolving business operating within a highly regulated environment, offering genuine scope for career development and progression.
Reporting directly to the Finance Director, the successful candidate will play a key role in owning month-end accounting processes, ensuring balance sheet integrity, and supporting financial control across the business. The position offers broad exposure across reporting, audit, cash flow, working capital, and finance transformation initiatives.
The Role
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the month-end close process and ensuring timely reporting deadlines are met
- Producing monthly revenue, gross margin, and management reporting
- Owning key balance sheet areas including accruals, prepayments, fixed assets, stock, capital expenditure, and other control accounts
- Managing revenue recognition and project accounting activities where required
- Supporting VAT reporting and statutory compliance obligations
- Acting as a key contact for external auditors throughout the annual audit process
- Maintaining and developing financial controls within the accounting system
- Supporting weekly cash flow forecasting and payment processes
- Monitoring working capital performance, including WIP, invoicing processes, and aged debt management
- Partnering with stakeholders across the business to provide financial insight and challenge
- Identifying opportunities to improve processes, automation, systems, and reporting capabilities
- Supporting finance transformation and continuous improvement projects
About You
The ideal candidate will possess:
- Qualified ACA, ACCA
- Strong financial accounting and month-end close experience
- Proven experience managing journals, reconciliations, reporting schedules, and general ledger activities
- Excellent balance sheet control and technical accounting skills
- Strong Excel capabilities, including pivot tables, reconciliations, and data analysis
- Experience working with ERP/accounting systems (Business Central experience advantageous)
- Previous exposure to external audits and statutory reporting processes
- A proactive and inquisitive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement
- Strong communication skills and the confidence to engage with both finance and operational stakeholders
- The ability to work independently, prioritise effectively, and perform well within reporting deadlines
What's on Offer?
- Opportunity to join a growing and ambitious organisation
- Direct exposure to senior leadership and business decision-making
- Broad and varied role with significant ownership and responsibility
- Clear progression and personal development opportunities
- Involvement in systems, process improvement, and finance transformation projects
- Collaborative and supportive working environment
Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to equal opportunity and diversity. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply.
Robert Half Ltd acts as an employment business for temporary positions and an employment agency for permanent positions. Robert Half is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Suitable candidates with equivalent qualifications and more or less experience can apply. Rates of pay and salary ranges are dependent upon your experience, qualifications and training. If you wish to apply, please read our Privacy Notice describing how we may process, disclose and store your personal data:
Financial Accountant in London employer: Robert Half
At Robert Half, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. As an IT Project Manager, you'll have the opportunity to lead transformative projects in a highly regulated environment, supported by a team that values professional growth and development. With competitive benefits and a commitment to employee well-being, we ensure that our team members thrive both personally and professionally in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Adviceπ€«
We think this is how you could land Financial Accountant in London
β¨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the finance industry, especially those who have experience in both management and financial accounting. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest financial regulations and compliance requirements, particularly those related to VAT and HMRC. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with financial forecasting and planning during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to budget processes or improved financial reporting in previous roles.
β¨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to communicate effectively with both C-Suite executives and front office staff. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully managed queries or collaborated with different teams to resolve financial issues.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Accountant in London
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your qualifications and experience relevant to the Financial Accountant role. Emphasise your expertise in both Management and Financial Accounting, as well as any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to prepare management accounts and handle statutory accounts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that addresses why you are a great fit for this position. Mention your qualifications (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) and your experience with financial forecasting, VAT compliance, and cash flow management. Show enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with C-Suite Executives.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, clearly outline your skills in variance analysis, financial planning, and managing queries related to invoicing and payments. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate your capabilities and how they align with the job requirements.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Financial Accountant role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Robert Half
β¨Showcase Your Qualifications
Make sure to highlight your qualifications, such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA, during the interview. Be prepared to discuss how your educational background and certifications have equipped you for the role of Chief Accountant.
β¨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Prepare to discuss your experience in both Management Accounting and Financial Accounting. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed monthly accounts, variance analysis, and statutory accounts in previous roles.
β¨Engage with C-Suite Scenarios
Since this role involves exposure to C-Suite Executives, think about how you can communicate complex financial information clearly and concisely. Practice explaining financial concepts in a way that non-financial stakeholders can understand.
β¨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to VAT compliance, cash flow forecasting, and financial planning. Brush up on relevant regulations and be ready to discuss how you've handled similar tasks in past positions.