Financial Accountant in London - Michael Page Finance

This role supports senior finance leaders by managing financial reporting, accounts payable, and compliance processes while helping to strengthen financial governance and culture across the organisation. It involves leading on annual accounts, overseeing audits, ensuring timely payments, and providing technical accounting advice to maintain strong financial controls and continuous improvement.

Client Details

This organisation is a UK public body that promotes fair business practices and protects consumers by ensuring markets work well. It operates independently of government departments, carrying out investigations, enforcing regulations, and providing expert advice to support open and competitive markets.

Description

• Lead the preparation of interim and annual financial accounts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with reporting standards.

• Manage the accounts payable function, including staff supervision, prompt payment of invoices and expenses, and oversight of purchase-to-pay processes.

• Oversee balance sheet management, including reconciliations, accruals, prepayments, and fixed asset controls.

• Coordinate external audit processes, preparing audit packs, providing evidence, and supporting implementation of audit recommendations.

• Provide technical accounting advice and maintain up-to-date financial policies and procedures in line with government and accounting standards.

• Ensure compliance with HMRC requirements, including VAT returns and reconciliations, and support budget and estimate submissions.

• Contribute to financial improvement initiatives and system development projects to enhance efficiency and control.

• Collaborate with colleagues across finance functions to maintain strong governance and fraud prevention controls.

• Undertake other related financial duties as required.

Profile

The successful candidate will be a fully qualified accountant with strong technical knowledge and excellent analytical skills. They will have experience leading finance teams, managing complex financial processes, and working accurately under pressure. Strong communication and influencing skills are essential, along with the ability to explain financial information clearly to non-specialists. The ideal person will be proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to improving systems and promoting best practice in financial management.

Job Offer

The role offers the opportunity to take on significant responsibility within a high-profile public organisation, contributing to the integrity and effectiveness of its financial operations. The successful candidate will gain experience across a wide range of financial management areas, work closely with senior leaders, and play a key part in shaping financial processes and culture.