Job Summary
We are looking for an experienced and strategic Head of Accounting to lead our UK Accounting Services division. The ideal candidate should possess extensive knowledge of UK accounting standards, bookkeeping, VAT, payroll, and statutory compliance. The role involves managing a team of accountants, ensuring high-quality service delivery to UK clients, driving operational excellence, and maintaining compliance with UK financial regulations.
Key Responsibilities
- Establish and lead the UK Accounting Services department.
- Manage end-to-end accounting operations for UK-based clients.
- Review bookkeeping, management accounts, financial statements, and reconciliations.
- Ensure compliance with UK accounting standards and HMRC regulations.
- Oversee VAT registration, VAT return preparation, and submissions.
- Supervise payroll processing, pension contributions, and statutory deductions.
- Review and finalize year-end accounts for limited companies, sole traders, and partnerships.
- Coordinate Corporation Tax and Self-Assessment processes with tax specialists.
- Monitor deadlines for Companies House and HMRC filings.
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for accounting processes.
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting team.
- Conduct regular quality reviews to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with UK clients.
- Resolve complex accounting issues and provide financial guidance.
- Monitor departmental KPIs, productivity, and profitability.
- Collaborate with business development teams during client onboarding.
- Ensure data security, confidentiality, and compliance with company policies.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Commerce, Accounting, Finance, or related field.
- CA, ACCA, ACA, CIMA, CPA, or equivalent professional qualification preferred.
- 8+ years of accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
- Hands-on experience handling UK accounting clients.
- Strong understanding of UK accounting regulations and financial reporting.
- Experience working in an outsourcing or accounting services environment is highly preferred.
Technical Skills
- UK Bookkeeping
- Management Accounts
- Financial Statement Preparation
- VAT Returns
- Payroll Processing
- Corporation Tax Basics
- Self-Assessment Basics
- Companies House Compliance
- HMRC Compliance
- Bank Reconciliation
- Accounts Payable & Receivable
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- MIS Reporting
Work Location: In person
