Head of UK Accounting

Cari; Abingdon; Hybrid; GBP 85,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Private healthcare

Dental cover

Generous holidays

Employer pension

Annual bonus

Job summary

Michael Page (UK) is partnering with a successful global business to recruit a Head of UK Accounting, based in a hybrid role in Didcot, Oxfordshire. You will lead UK accounting across entities, ensuring timely financial reporting and robust controls.

You will manage month- and year-end closes, oversee statutory filings, and drive continuous improvement across the finance function while developing a high-performing team.

Qualifications

• Qualified ACA or equivalent with significant relevant experience.
• Degree in Accounting, Finance or related discipline.
• Experience in multinational or complex corporate environments.
• Strong knowledge of UK GAAP and IFRS reporting standards.
• Experience with ERP systems and finance transformation initiatives.
• Proven leadership in managing and developing finance teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all accounting activities across UK entities with timely reporting.
• Manage month-end, quarter-end and year-end closes per group requirements.
• Review journals, balance sheet reconciliations and local reporting deliverables.
• Ensure compliance with UK GAAP, IFRS and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee statutory statements and filings; liaise with auditors and tax advisors.
• Maintain internal controls, SOX/ICFR alignment and audit readiness.
• Provide technical accounting guidance and mentor the team.
• Collaborate with Tax, Treasury, HR, Procurement and Operations.
• Drive finance transformation and system enhancements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Analytical

Problem-solving

Education

ACA / Chartered

Accounting degree

Tools

ERP systems

IFRS / UK GAAP

Job description

• Hybrid role based in Didcot, Oxfordshire within successful global business
• Varied role overseeing a stable accounting team

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established international organisation operating within a highly regulated, fast-paced environment. With a strong global footprint and a focus on innovation and operational excellence, the business offers employees the opportunity to work within a collaborative, forward-thinking culture while contributing to significant strategic and financial initiatives.

Job Description

The Head of UK Accounting will have duties including:

• Lead and oversee all accounting activities across UK legal entities, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Manage month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes in line with group reporting requirements.
• Review and approve accounting journals, balance sheet reconciliations, and local reporting deliverables.
• Ensure compliance with UK GAAP, IFRS, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of statutory financial statements and associated filings.
• Manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory bodies.
• Maintain a robust internal control environment, supporting SOX/ICFR and audit requirements.
• Provide technical accounting guidance and act as the escalation point for complex accounting matters.
• Partner with key business functions including Tax, Treasury, HR, Procurement, and Operations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, finance transformation projects, and systems enhancements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team while fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration.

The Successful Applicant

A successful 'Head Of UK Accounting' should have:

• QualifiedACA, or equivalent professional qualification with significant relevant experience.
• Degree educated in Accounting, Finance, Business or a related discipline.
• Demonstrable experience within a multinational or complex corporate environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP and IFRS reporting standards.
• Understanding of internal controls, audit processes, and SOX/ICFR frameworks.
• Experience working with ERP systems and finance transformation initiatives.
• Proven leadership experience, including managing and developing finance teams.
• Strong communication, stakeholder management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

What's on Offer

• Salary of between £85,000 to £95,000, dependent on the level of experience.
• Hybrid working arrangement.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Generous holiday allowance with additional service-related entitlement.
• Competitive pension contribution scheme.
• Private healthcare and dental cover.
• Annual bonus potential and additional employee wellbeing benefits.
• The opportunity to join a global organisation where you can influence accounting strategy, drive improvements, and develop your leadership career.

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment.

As an inclusive recruiter we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences.

If you require any adjustments or accommodations during the recruitment process, we'll work with you to ensure you can perform at your best.