Group Accountant (12 Month Fixed Term)

MIDDLESBROUGH COLLEGE; North East; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational institution in the North East of England is seeking a skilled Group Accountant to lead the Finance Department. The role involves managing the accounts team, producing financial reports, and supporting strategic objectives through financial analysis. The ideal candidate is CCAB or CIMA qualified, with experience in management accounts and a strong background in budgeting and forecasting. This position offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary with progression opportunities

Excellent pension scheme (LGPS)

Key role in shaping financial future

Values-driven organisation

Qualifications

• CCAB or CIMA qualified accountant.
• Experience in management accounts and year-end reporting.
• Proven expertise in budgeting and forecasting.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the general accounts team.
• Produce and analyse VAT returns.
• Drive budgeting and reforecasting.

Skills

CCAB or CIMA qualified

Management accounts experience

Budget setting expertise

Forecasting skills

Financial analysis proficiency

Advanced Excel knowledge

Excellent communication skills

Leadership abilities

Job description

Overview

Imperial Recruitment are delighted to be working with Middlesbrough College on an exclusive basis to recruit a skilled Group Accountant to join the College's Finance Department. This is a key leadership role, reporting to the Executive Director of Finance and supporting the Vice Principal (Finance & Registry). You will manage the general accounts team, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting, budget setting, forecasting, scenario modelling, and year-end processes. You will play a central role in helping the College meet its strategic objectives, directly supporting operational teams and senior leadership with financial analysis and reporting that drive decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the general accounts team, ensuring delivery of monthly management accounts and year-end statutory reporting.
• Drive budgeting, reforecasting, and scenario modelling across the College Group.
• Produce and analyse VAT returns and consult with HMRC.
• Manage staffing cost models, forecasting future commitments, and work closely with HR teams.
• Function as a key partner across non-curriculum areas, producing reports and supporting financial decision-making.
• Line manages a team of three and oversees finance authorisation processes (including BACS runs).
• Serve as a main point of contact for external auditors.
• Support ongoing process improvements within the finance function.

Essential

• CCAB or CIMA qualified accountant.
• Experience in management accounts, year-end reporting, and collaborating with auditors.
• Proven expertise in budget setting, forecasting, scenario modelling, and financial analysis.
• Knowledge of financial reporting standards and advanced Excel.
• Experience in VAT reporting and submissions.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and leadership skills.

Desirable

• Experience within the education sector.
• Knowledge of VAT rules, grant funding, and use of Power BI dashboards.
• Experience of process improvement and financial system development.

Benefits / Additional Information

• Competitive salary with progression opportunities.
• Excellent pension scheme (LGPS).
• Opportunity to play a key role in shaping the financial future of a leading College.
• Work within a values-driven organisation committed to respect, responsibility, and excellence.
• Be part of a forward-thinking finance team driving real impact.