Management Accountant

Telford College; Telford; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational institution in Telford is seeking a finance professional to oversee month-end management accounting processes. This role includes responsibilities such as the preparation of accruals, financial forecasting, and producing insightful management accounts. Candidates should possess a Level 4 AAT qualification or equivalent and demonstrate strong analytical skills along with high proficiency in MS Excel. The position is integral to supporting the College's financial reporting and compliance requirements.

Qualifications

• High level of analytical skills necessary for financial forecasting and reporting.
• Proficient in MS Excel and Word to manage financial data and documentation.
• Ability to work with computerized accounting systems for efficient processes.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts and journal entries.
• Manage the month-end close process and Balance Sheet reconciliations.
• Produce clear narrative commentary for financial variances.
• Support the Finance Manager with financial statements and audit documentation.
• Lead the payroll process and ensure accurate forecasting.

Skills

Analytical skills

Computer literacy (MS Excel/Word)

Experience with computerized accounting systems

Education

Level 4 AAT or equivalent

Job description

Reporting directly to the Finance Manager, this role is responsible for delivering accurate and timely month‑end management accounting processes. You will play a key part in supporting the College's financial reporting and forecasting requirements, contributing to the effective management of financial performance across the organisation. Key responsibilities include the preparation and posting of accruals and prepayments, producing pay and non‑pay management accounts with supporting narrative, and completing the College Financial Forecasting Return (CFFR) on a monthly basis. You will ensure that financial information is robust, reliable, and supports informed decision‑making. The role also contributes to the development of an effective, cross‑College finance service, working collaboratively with colleagues to promote consistency, efficiency, and high‑quality financial support across all areas of the organisation.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts including posting of accruals, prepayments and journal entries to ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Manage the month‑end close process including production of Balance Sheet reconciliations.
• Undertake continuous review and monitoring of ledgers to ensure accuracy, completeness and compliance with financial controls.
• Produce clear and insightful narrative commentary for pay and non‑pay variances, highlighting key trends, risks and opportunities.
• Produce accurate forecasting of income, expenditure and cashflow supporting proactive financial decision making.
• Support the Finance Manager in preparing documentation for financial statements, external auditors and internal audit, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and funding body requirements.
• Responsibility for the monthly updating of the College Financial Forecasting Return (CFFR) ensuring alignment with the management accounts and compliance with DfE requirements.
• Lead on the payroll process including production of accurate pay forecasting/modelling through liaison with Human Resources.
• Assist with project accounting tasks as required to facilitate the financial evaluation and monitoring of strategic initiatives across the College.
• Assist with Capital Grants ensuring financial compliance and submissions where required.
• Contribute to the annual College budget process including preparation of budget templates and consolidation of departmental budgets.
• Help with Cash flow reporting and management.

Additional Requirements

• Computerised accounting systems
• High level of analytical skills
• High level of computer literacy (MS Excel/Word)
• Ability to identify opportunities for improving efficiencies and enhancing value for money

Qualifications and Training

• Level 4 AAT or equivalent