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- Tasks: Lead financial transformations and optimise finance functions in a creative school.
- Company: Join a leading creative school with a dynamic finance team.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while working with innovative tools and systems.
- Qualifications: Fully qualified accountant with strong Excel and accounting skills.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to enhance your career in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Vertex Associates are proud to be partnering with one of the UK's leading creative Schools in hiring a Finance Consultant for a 4 month contract. This will be on a hybrid basis with 3 days in their East London office.
We are seeking a fully qualified individual with strong technical accounting skills to support the transformation and optimisation of the finance function. The ideal candidate will be able to hit the ground running, quickly get up to speed with the systems, and bring advanced Excel skills. Experience in Higher Education and SME environments is essential, and a background in audit with insight into robust internal control frameworks is a strong advantage.
Responsibilities:- Lead the rollout and implementation of the organisation’s financial regulations.
- Investigate system limitations within Xero and deliver an improved management reporting solution.
- Strengthen balance sheet reconciliations, month-end close activities, and internal reporting processes.
- Provide hands-on support, coaching, and ad-hoc training to junior finance staff.
- Support the ongoing development of the finance function to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the finance team.
- Prepare monthly management accounts and Actual vs Budget reporting.
- Assist in drafting the Annual Financial Reports (AFR).
- Lead on setting up Xero for partial exemption VAT treatment.
- Contribute to the development of a new three-statement cash flow model.
- Drive automation and process improvements, including the use of AI tools where appropriate.
- Optimise the use of Xero and integrated add-ons such as ApprovalMax, Pleo, and Telleroo.
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
- Strong technical accounting skills with the ability to apply them in a hands-on way.
- Advanced Excel skills, including financial modelling and data analysis.
- Proven ability to quickly integrate into new environments and deliver immediate impact.
- Experience in Higher Education and SME finance operations.
- Proficient in Xero and related tools.
- Exposure to VAT partial exemption for Higher Education institutions would be beneficial.
- Audit experience is advantageous, with solid understanding of what good internal controls should look like.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Finance Consultant employer: Vertex Associates - Accountancy and Finance Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Vertex Associates - Accountancy and Finance Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Consultant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in higher education. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical skills. Since this role requires strong accounting knowledge and advanced Excel skills, practice common financial scenarios and be ready to showcase your expertise during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send 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 for the best chance at landing that Finance Consultant gig! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to recruiters who are eager to find the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Consultant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Consultant role. Highlight your technical accounting skills and any relevant experience in Higher Education or SME environments. We want to see how you can hit the ground running!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your advanced Excel skills and any experience with Xero, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've improved processes or delivered results in previous roles. We love seeing how you’ve made an impact!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on our radar quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vertex Associates - Accountancy and Finance Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Consultant, you’ll need to demonstrate your strong technical accounting skills. Brush up on key financial concepts and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles, especially in Higher Education or SME environments.
✨Excel Like a Pro
Advanced Excel skills are a must for this role. Prepare to showcase your financial modelling and data analysis abilities during the interview. Consider bringing examples of past work or even a mini demo to highlight your expertise.
✨Familiarise with Xero
Since Xero is a key tool for this position, make sure you’re well-versed in its functionalities. Be prepared to discuss any challenges you've faced with Xero and how you overcame them, particularly regarding VAT partial exemption and management reporting.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
The role requires excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities. Think of specific instances where you’ve identified issues within finance functions and successfully implemented solutions. This will show your potential employer that you can hit the ground running.
