Lead Financial Accountant – UK & International Ops

Howett Thorpe; Holybourne; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Howett Thorpe is seeking a Financial Accountant to join the Hampshire finance team. This hands-on role combines day-to-day accounting with team leadership and process improvement, supporting UK and overseas entities.

Reporting to the Group Finance Manager, you will own bookkeeping, perform balance sheet reconciliations, oversee month-end and year-end processes, ensure revenue recognition accuracy and VAT compliance, and drive stronger controls.

Qualifications

• Experience leading or supervising a finance team.
• Strong double-entry bookkeeping knowledge.
• Experience within manufacturing, wholesale, distribution or retail environments.
• Multi-currency accounting experience and exposure to international entities.
• Strong balance sheet reconciliation and ledger review expertise.
• AAT qualification or qualified by experience.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of bookkeeping and transactional accounting activities across the UK business and selected Group entities.
• Act as the first point of contact for Accounts Assistants, providing guidance and support on day-to-day finance queries.
• Conduct detailed reviews and health checks of general ledgers across UK and international operations.
• Investigate and resolve accounting anomalies, unexplained balances and unusual journal entries.
• Ensure all balance sheet accounts are accurately reconciled and supported by appropriate documentation.
• Review intercompany transactions and multi-currency accounting entries.
• Support month-end and year-end processes, working closely with the Group Finance Manager.
• Ensure accurate revenue recognition and appropriate accounting treatment during year-end reporting.
• Review VAT compliance processes and assist with VAT reporting requirements.
• Collaborate with finance teams across the Group to improve consistency and accounting accuracy.
• Identify opportunities to improve financial controls, processes and procedures, implementing corrective actions where required.
• Assist with audit preparation and provide support for external audit requests.
• Maintain accurate financial records and ensure compliance with internal policies and accounting standards.

Skills

Team leadership

Double-entry bookkeeping

Analytical skills

Advanced Excel

Attention to detail

Intercompany accounting

Education

AAT qualification or equivalent

Tools

Excel

Job description

Howett Thorpe is seeking a Financial Accountant to join the Hampshire finance team. This hands-on role combines day-to-day accounting with team leadership and process improvement, supporting UK and overseas entities.

Reporting to the Group Finance Manager, you will own bookkeeping, perform balance sheet reconciliations, oversee month-end and year-end processes, ensure revenue recognition accuracy and VAT compliance, and drive stronger controls.