One of our centrally based colleges is seeking to appoint a Management Accountant to play a pivotal role in the effective management, reporting, and development of its financial operations. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced accountant to join a complex and dynamic academic environment and contribute directly to the College’s strategic and operational success.
Working closely with the College Accountant and the wider Accounts Team, the postholder will be responsible for the accurate and timely production of financial and management information, supporting decision-making across the College. The role requires the ability to manage multiple competing deadlines, maintain a high level of accuracy, and build effective working relationships with a broad range of stakeholders, including students, senior management, and academic Fellows.
As the College’s endowment and activities continue to expand, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to help shape and improve financial systems and processes, increasing efficiency and reducing month-end reporting timescales.
A strong technical understanding of management accounting is essential, and experience of VAT in a charity setting, fund accounting, and reporting under the Charities SORP would be highly desirable.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
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Produce monthly management accounts and budget holder reports in line with the College timetable
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Prepare balance sheets and review all balance sheet reconciliations
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Maintain the Fixed Assets ledger and reconcile it to the nominal ledger on a monthly basis
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Assist with the production of statutory accounts and regulatory returns
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Manage and reconcile donation records and associated bank accounts, liaising closely with the Development Office
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Support the annual audit process and act as a key liaison with external auditors
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Ensure donations are correctly recorded, gift aid declarations are in place, and gift aid claims are made accurately
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Assist with cash flow management and reporting
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Prepare VAT returns, annual VAT adjustments, and any Capital Goods Scheme adjustments, liaising with external VAT advisers as required
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Develop and implement strategies to reduce College costs
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Support the sourcing of finance for College projects, such as Fellowships
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Advise on the financial implications of College decisions
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Develop, oversee, and improve financial systems and procedures
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Control income and expenditure to ensure spending remains within approved budgets
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Assist with the preparation of forecasts and budgets
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Oversee the day-to-day running of the Accounts Office
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Oversee and provide back-up support for payroll operations
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Maintain accounts for the College’s development subsidiary company
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Deputise for the College Accountant when required
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Respond to ad hoc finance queries from departments and stakeholders
Selection Criteria
Essential
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Qualified or part-qualified accountant with proven relevant experience
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Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, with practical knowledge of Word and Outlook
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Demonstrable experience of effective team management