Head of Accounts

Head of Accounts - £45,000 - £55,000 - Full-Time - St Ives, Cornwall

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a finance professional to join a successful and well-established organisation as Head of Accounts. Reporting directly to the Financial Controller, this hands-on position will play a key role in the day-to-day running of the finance function, supporting accurate financial reporting, strong controls and continuous improvement across the department.

This role would suit a newly qualified, finalist or part-qualified accountant looking to take the next step in their career. Applications are also welcomed from experienced Finance Managers, Management Accountants, Senior Management Accountants and Assistant Finance Managers seeking greater responsibility and exposure across the finance function.

Responsibilities will include

* Oversee day-to-day accounting activities and support the smooth running of the finance function

* Support and develop finance colleagues whilst ensuring robust controls, procedures and reporting standards are maintained

* Manage month-end and year-end accounting activities, including balance sheet reconciliations and period-end reporting

* Prepare cash flow reports and provide meaningful commentary on financial performance and key variances

* Oversee payroll processes and coordinate cover arrangements when required

* Assist with audits, VAT returns and other compliance-related activities

* Identify opportunities to improve financial reporting, systems and operational efficiencies

* Support wider finance projects and work collaboratively with stakeholders across the business

You will have a minimum of five years' finance experience and be newly qualified, part-qualified or actively studying towards ACCA, CIMA, ACA or an equivalent qualification. Alongside strong financial accounting experience, you will have previous experience overseeing payroll processes and be comfortable providing payroll support when required. Study support is available for candidates currently working towards a professional qualification.

Strong Excel skills are essential, together with experience of Sage 200 Professional or a similar accounting system. You will be confident building relationships across the business, supporting colleagues and identifying opportunities to improve processes and reporting. Exposure to AI tools or technology-driven improvements would be advantageous.

Reporting to the Financial Controller, you will join an experienced finance team comprising specialists across payroll, purchase ledger, fleet administration, subsidiary company accounting, expenses and cashbook management.

This is a site-based role and would suit someone who enjoys working closely with colleagues in a collaborative environment. Whilst the organisation is keen to appoint as soon as possible, they are prepared to wait for the right individual.

For more information please get in touch with Elle Benjamin quoting reference EB11281.

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