Head of Accounting

JR United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the education sector is seeking a dynamic Head of Accounting to lead its finance function. This permanent full-time role is based in Central London and offers a unique opportunity to shape the financial foundation of a rapidly growing organization backed by Private Equity. The successful candidate will manage day-to-day accounting operations, ensure compliance in financial reporting, and collaborate closely with senior stakeholders. With a people-centric culture and a commitment to staff development, this role promises a rewarding career path in a fast-paced environment focused on continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Professionally qualified accountant with ACA, ACCA, or CIMA.
• Strong technical accounting background with audit experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the accounting function, including month-end close.
• Lead and mentor a small team of accountants.
• Collaborate with FP&A for financial control and commercial finance.

Skills

Accounting

Financial Reporting

Audit Processes

Team Leadership

Financial Systems Development

Commercial Awareness

Education

ACA

ACCA

CIMA

Job description

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Head of Accounting | Private Equity, Education.

Location | Central London, office-based role (4 days), permanent full-time position.

KE12089

The Opportunity

Finatal are partnering with an award-winning, people-centric education group, backed by Private Equity and headquartered in London, on a search for a dynamic Head of Accounting to join its high-performing finance function.

With a European footprint and a commitment to delivering exceptional educational experiences, the business has rapidly scaled to a £200m turnover with £30m+ EBITDA. It has been highly acquisitive in recent years and continues to pursue a robust buy-and-build strategy. On a clear path toward a successful exit in the next two years, the company offers a rare opportunity to be part of a fast-moving, high-growth journey.

Renowned for its focus on staff development, both professionally and personally, the organisation has received multiple industry awards and is globally recognised for its progressive and empowering culture. Employees are at the heart of the business, and the leadership team places significant emphasis on nurturing talent and celebrating success.

The Role

The Head of Accounting will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial foundation of the organisation. Leading a small, dedicated team, the successful candidate will take full ownership of the day-to-day accounting operations, ensure accuracy and compliance in financial reporting, and work closely with FP&A and senior non-finance stakeholders across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of the accounting function, including month-end close, statutory reporting, and audit processes.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of accountants.
• Collaborate cross-functionally, particularly with FP&A, to ensure cohesion between financial control and commercial finance.
• Provide financial insight and operational support to senior stakeholders across the organisation.
• Continually assess and enhance systems, controls, and processes to support scalability and efficiency in a rapidly growing environment.
• Ensure technical excellence in statutory accounting and compliance in line with best practices and regulatory requirements.

The Requirements

• Professionally qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Strong technical accounting background, ideally with experience in audit or controllership.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and improving financial systems and processes.
• Commercially aware with the ability to bridge the gap between finance and the wider business.
• Comfortable in fast-paced, acquisitive environments with a track record of driving improvement and navigating change.
• People-first mindset, with proven leadership and team development capabilities.