Senior Financial Accountant

Reed; North East; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established international manufacturing group is seeking a Senior Financial Accountant to join its UK-based finance team. The role involves leading month-end processes, ensuring financial reporting accuracy, and supporting statutory compliance. Ideal candidates will be qualified or studying accounting, with strong experience in UK GAAP and manufacturing environments. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to a high-performing finance function within a global organisation.

Qualifications

• Qualified Accountant or currently studying (ACA / ACCA / CIMA).
• Strong understanding of UK GAAP and/or IFRS.
• Experience in a senior accounting role, ideally in manufacturing.
• Proven track record of managing month-end close.
• Experience working with auditors.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly and quarterly close processes including journal entries and reconciliations.
• Ensure financial statements are accurate and compliant with UK GAAP.
• Manage bank and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Deliver timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Analyse and explain variances in financial performance.
• Oversee Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable functions.
• Prepare cash flow forecasts and reports.
• Maintain and enhance internal controls.
• Coordinate external and internal audits.
• Identify and implement process improvements.

Skills

Advanced technical accounting and reporting skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

High attention to detail and accuracy

Ability to manage multiple priorities

Advanced Excel skills

Process ownership and continuous improvement mindset

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Experience with ERP systems

Education

Degree in Accounting or Finance

Job description

Overview

Reed Finance are working with a well-established international manufacturing group seeking a Senior Financial Accountant to join its UK-based finance team. Operating across multiple countries with a strong brand portfolio, the company is focused on delivering operational excellence and financial integrity across its business units. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a high-performing finance function within a global organisation.

Purpose of the Role

This is a pivotal role within the finance team, responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting. The successful candidate will lead on month-end processes, support statutory compliance, and drive continuous improvement in financial operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the monthly and quarterly close processes, including journal entries, accruals, VAT returns, and reconciliations.
• Ensure financial statements are accurate and compliant with UK GAAP and internal group policies.
• Manage bank and balance sheet reconciliations, maintaining robust financial records.
• Deliver timely and accurate financial reporting in line with internal deadlines.
• Analyse and explain variances in financial performance.
• Oversee Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable functions.
• Prepare cash flow forecasts and reports.
• Maintain and enhance internal controls in line with SOX requirements.
• Coordinate external and internal audits, including preparation of statutory accounts.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Provide support across related areas such as fixed assets, payroll reconciliation, and financing arrangements.

Candidate Profile

Qualifications:

• Qualified Accountant or currently studying (ACA / ACCA / CIMA)
• Degree in Accounting or Finance

Experience:

• Strong understanding of UK GAAP and/or IFRS
• Experience in a senior accounting role, ideally in manufacturing
• Proven track record of managing month-end close
• Experience working with auditors

Skills and Competencies

• Advanced technical accounting and reporting skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to manage multiple priorities
• Advanced Excel skills
• Process ownership and continuous improvement mindset
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience with ERP systems is desirable