College Accountant
1 month ago
Farnborough
About the Role:
We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced College Accountant to lead and manage our Finance team. In this key role, you will be responsible for ensuring that our financial controls are robust and aligned with both internal policies and legal requirements. You will provide timely and accurate financial information and management reporting, while also maintaining strong financial health for the College.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead and manage the Finance Department to ensure effective and efficient operations.
Prepare and present monthly management accounts for review by the Director of Finance, Senior Management Team, and Governors.
Oversee compliance with internal controls and financial regulations, while driving improvements in systems, processes, and customer service.
Provide real-time financial monitoring reports to budget holders, offering assistance as needed.
Manage the College’s budgeting process and ensure budgetary controls are in place.
Prepare statutory accounts for the College and subsidiary companies, liaising with external and internal auditors.
Ensure all required returns are submitted to government and funding bodies.
Oversee day-to-day treasury management in line with College policies.
Manage key functions within the Finance Department, including sales ledger, purchase ledger, banking, student finance, fixed assets, and payroll checks (administered by HR).
Work closely with the Director of Finance to develop and implement financial strategies, accounting practices, and reporting frameworks.
Manage the College’s financial system (currently Symmetry Financials) and ensure staff are fully trained in its use.
Oversee VAT and taxation issues, including statutory payroll returns.
Act as a key point of contact for auditors, external consultants, and statutory bodies.
Provide management information to the Senior Management Team as required.
Support ongoing improvements and innovation within the finance team and wider College operations. What We’re Looking For:
Qualifications:
'O' and 'A' Levels, including Maths and English.
Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/CIPFA).
Experience:
3-5 years of post-qualification experience, ideally within a Further Education (FE) college or similar organisation.
Strong technical accounting and management skills, with proficiency in Excel and accounting software.
Key Skills & Competencies:
Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Proven experience in managing and motivating teams.
Ability to work in a dynamic, changing environment.
Personal Attributes:
High level of personal integrity and commitment to public sector principles.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to think strategically while also being a hands-on problem solver.
Motivated, hardworking, and proactive.
Safeguarding:
The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults. As such, all staff will be required to undertake an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check.
If you’re passionate about finance and education, and you’re ready to take on an exciting leadership role, we’d love to hear from you!
