IFRS16 Manager

Cornerstone; Theale; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Cornerstone is the UK’s leading mobile and digital infrastructure provider, driving IFRS16 reporting across a portfolio of 15,000+ sites. The IFRS16 Manager will own policy, ensure timely month-end close, and act as SME to external auditors and outsourced partners.

Strong Excel modelling and data analysis are essential for delivering robust financial reporting. We seek a proactive professional with proven IFRS16 ownership, able to collaborate with shareholder teams and internal finance heads to

Qualifications

• 2+ years post-qualification experience with IFRS16 accounting
• Proven ownership of IFRS16 reporting
• Experience managing external audit reviews
• Experience operating in a large or complex organisation
• Experience improving financial controls and processes
• Strong Excel skills and ability to manage large datasets
• Ability to work independently and prioritise effectively

Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end IFRS16 process and policy for 15,000+ sites
• Maintain monthly IFRS16 reporting with Excel models and journals
• Act as the primary IFRS16 contact for finance teams, auditors and providers
• Lead responses to external audit reviews and mitigate findings
• Collaborate with stakeholders to drive process improvements and controls

Skills

IFRS16 accounting

Excel modelling

Data analysis

Leadership

Job description

Our Vision: Continue to be the leading UK mobile infrastructure services company.

We are at an exciting time in our company’s development. We've come a long way since we were first formed in 2012. From the rollout of new technologies and managing complex legislation affecting the industry, we are leading the conversation on innovation and developing sharper solutions to serve our customers better. We collaborate as a team to meet the high standards expected of us and demand the best of ourselves through our values.

Our Mission: To be famous for excellence in delivery, embracing transformation with our people and our customers at its heart.

IFRS16 Manager

MAIN PURPOSE OF ROLE

Cornerstone is the UK’s leading mobile and digital infrastructure provider, managing over 15,700 sites and holding 35% of the market. Our Mission is to be famous for excellence in delivery, embracing transformation with our people and our customers at its heart.

Lead the lease accounting within Cornerstone, acting as the Subject Matter Expert for IFRS16. Ensure monthly lease data updates are processed in line with IFRS16 guidance, post all associated journals, maintain robust reporting controls, and lead responses to external audit review. Drive improvements in data visibility and reporting integrity through close collaboration with outsourced providers.

KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

SCOPE

Own the end-to-end IFRS16 process and policy, including lease accounting for a portfolio in excess of 15,000 sites.

Maintain accurate monthly IFRS16 reporting by updating lease data in an Excel based model, posting associated journals.

Act as the key IFRS16 contact for shareholder finance teams, external auditors, outsourced providers and internal stakeholders.

DELIVERY

IFRS16 process, data and reporting:

• Act as SME for IFRS16 process and policy, ensuring lease accounting treatment is applied consistently and in line with IFRS16 guidance.
• Liaise with outsourced providers to obtain monthly updates and process adjustments to lease data, posting all associated IFRS16 journals.
• Maintain and improve robust Excel-based models and supporting controls to generate accurate lease accounting outputs.
• Accounting treatment of lease modifications and lease impairment assessment.
• Accuracy and timeliness of monthly IFRS16 close; ensuring reporting is completed before 12pm on WD2.

Reporting & Audit:

• Lead responses to external audit review of lease accounting, coordinating evidence, analysis and management responses.
• Ensure there are no material external audit findings in relation to lease accounting.
• Preparing technical accounting papers to support lease accounting methodology.
• Collaborate with outsourced providers to drive process improvements and enhance the integrity of IFRS16 reporting.
• Supporting commercial, legal and property teams on lease structures

Shareholder Reporting:

• Act as key IFRS16 contact for shareholder finance teams, supporting with queries and the provision of accurate data.
• Build trusted relationships with internal and external finance stakeholders to resolve issues, provide insight and maintain confidence in IFRS16 reporting.

Other IFRS16 Responsibilities:

• Document and maintain accounting papers and process notes for IFRS16 as required.
• Ensure balance sheet reconciliations are maintained monthly, including deferred rent.
• Develop and maintain a robust control environment for lease accounting.
• Assessing accounting implications of new site agreements and lease modifications
• Technical accounting papers and position papers
• Monitor IFRS developments and accounting changes to ensure continued compliance.

Other:

• Support the implementation of a new IFRS16 lease accounting system, acting as the finance subject matter expert throughout design, testing and deployment.
• Support ad-hoc projects and tasks as directed by line manager.
• Contribute actively to health and safety, environmental, business continuity, and information security arrangements to meet ISO obligations.

ROLE EXPERTISE

Strong technical understanding of IFRS16 accounting, controls and policy application.

Ability to manage complex reporting and audit requirements.

Advanced Excel modelling and large-volume data analysis capability, with a focus on reporting integrity and process improvement.

Leadership capability to manage relationships with outsourced service providers, external auditors and internal heads of finance.

PERSON SPECIFICATION (EXPERTISE)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIANCE

• 2+ years post-qualification experience with exposure to IFRS16 accounting.
• Proven ownership of IFRS16 reporting
• Experience managing external audit reviews
• Experience operating in a large or complex organisation
• Experience improving financial controls and processes
• Strong Excel skills and ability to manage large datasets.
• Ability to work independently and prioritise effectively.

Qualifications:

CORNERSTONE VALUES

Operate and uphold Cornerstones’ values of Everyone Matters, Innovate to Elevate, Do the Right Thing and Customer First by being Professional, Respectful and Open

Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) is fundamental to our success. We strive to cultivate an inclusive environment where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered. By embracing unique perspectives and experiences, we drive innovation and drive our organisation forward, therefore, we recognise the importance of welcoming applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

We want to ensure everyone is able to present their best self throughout the recruitment process so if you require any adjustments, please let us know.