Management Accountant

Wigan & Leigh College; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Greater Manchester seeks a Management Accountant to oversee financial operations. You will produce management accounts, support budget holders, and lead a finance team, ensuring resources align with the college's mission. Ideal candidates will have an AAT qualification or be pursuing one and possess a proven track record in budget management and financial reporting. This role offers a supportive and values-driven environment. Join us in shaping brighter futures.

Benefits

Health and wellbeing support

Flexible working options

Discounts on travel and gym memberships

Pension schemes

Personal development opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum AAT qualification or actively working towards one.
• Experience in managing budgets and preparing financial reports.
• Strong IT skills and detail-oriented analytical approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead the production of management accounts and financial reports.
• Supervise the finance team to promote accountability and excellence.
• Support college managers in making value-driven decisions.

Skills

Budget management

Financial reporting

Exceptional communication

Proactive mindset

Attention to detail

Education

Recognised accountancy qualification (AAT minimum)

Tools

Financial reporting tools

Data analysis tools

Job description

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Interview Date: 17th December 2025

This is a brilliant opportunity to join our expanding community of talented, committed and inspirational colleagues.

Working in a dynamic, values led organisation, this role is for those who are passionate about development and innovation, within a lively college community.

We offer a range of benefits, including health and wellbeing support, flexible working, discounts on travel, parking and gym memberships through our exciting Benefits Platform, Green Car Scheme, Medicash, personal development opportunities and attractive pension schemes.

Be the numbers behind the mission. Shape futures through financial excellence.

At Wigan & Leigh College, every number tells a story. A story of transformation, opportunity, and ambition. As our Management Accountant, you won't just report the figures—you'll help shape decisions that change lives.

This is your opportunity to lead financial operations in one of Greater Manchester’s most ambitious and forward‑thinking colleges. You’ll provide critical insight, empower budget holders, and ensure our resources are aligned with our mission to create brighter futures.

What you’ll do

• Lead the production of timely, insightful management accounts and financial reports.
• Support and challenge college managers to drive cost‑effective, value‑driven decisions.
• Supervise a talented Finance team and foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Act as the operational lead for audits, funding returns, and financial forecasting.
• Develop systems and reporting tools that turn data into action across the college.

What you’ll bring

• A recognised accountancy qualification (AAT minimum) or be actively working towards one.
• Proven experience managing budgets, preparing financial reports, and offering strategic insight.
• A keen eye for detail with the ability to see the bigger picture.
• Exceptional communication skills, able to advise, challenge, and guide stakeholders with confidence.
• Strong IT skills and a proactive, solutions‑focused mindset.

Your financial leadership could mean more students reach their potential.

Whether you’re advising on capital investments, leading audits, or fine‑tuning forecasts, you’ll be a trusted voice behind the decisions that keep our college thriving.

Ready to use your skills to make a lasting difference? Let’s make it happen.

The College reserves the right to interview for this post should we receive suitable candidates prior to the closing date.

The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Employees will, in accordance with statutory guidance, be subject to a comprehensive checking process including references from current and previous employers, health, right to work in the UK, an enhanced DBS check and a further check against the appropriate barred list. To comply with legislation, you are required to obtain a DBS check for your role. We will be asking Protocol National Ltd/Esafeguarding Ltd to undertake this process on our behalf.