Key Achievements:
- Led the global accounting function, improving reporting accuracy by 40%.
- Streamlined month-end and year-end close processes, reducing closing time by 35%.
- Implemented automated reporting, reconciliations, and workflow tools, saving 20+ hours per month.
- Standardised accounting policies across multiple subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with UK GAAP, IFRS, and US GAAP.
- Strengthened internal controls, reducing errors and misstatements by 50%.
- Oversaw preparation of statutory, management, and consolidated financial statements with zero audit findings.
- Improved cash flow management, enhancing liquidity and working capital efficiency.
- Developed robust budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis processes, increasing forecast accuracy by 30%.
- Led ERP and system implementations, improving financial reporting and operational efficiency.
- Mentored and developed accounting teams, creating multiple internal promotions.
- Streamlined intercompany reconciliation processes, reducing delays and disputes by 25%.
- Introduced KPIs and dashboards for executive reporting and financial performance monitoring.
- Reduced operational and overhead costs through process improvements, saving £500K annually.
- Enhanced fixed asset accounting, depreciation schedules, and cost allocation processes.
- Improved revenue recognition, expense tracking, and financial compliance.
- Coordinated external audits, liaising effectively with auditors to ensure timely completion.
- Standardised reporting templates for management and board review.
- Introduced scenario planning and forecasting tools to support strategic decisions.
- Developed and maintained policies and procedures to strengthen corporate governance.
- Partnered with operations and finance teams to improve efficiency and financial insight.
- Led initiatives to improve automation and reduce manual accounting tasks.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the accounting function, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant financial reporting.
- Develop, implement, and maintain internal controls, accounting policies, and procedures.
- Oversee statutory, management, and consolidated reporting, budgets, forecasts, and variance analysis.
- Manage and mentor accounting staff, fostering professional growth and high performance.
- Partner with senior leadership to provide actionable financial insights for strategic and operational decision-making.
- Drive process improvements, system enhancements, and automation initiatives to improve efficiency and accuracy.
- Coordinate internal and external audits, ensuring compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements.
What does a Head of Accounting do?
A Head of Accounting manages an organisation's accounting operations, ensuring financial records are accurate, reporting deadlines are met and accounting practices comply with regulatory standards. They lead accounting teams while supporting strategic financial planning and business growth.
What qualifications do you need to become a Head of Accounting?
Most employers require ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualifications together with significant experience in financial reporting, accounting operations and finance leadership.
What skills are important for a Head of Accounting?
Heads of Accounting require strong technical accounting knowledge, leadership and organisational skills. Commercial awareness, communication and attention to detail are also essential for leading successful finance teams.
What are the responsibilities of a Head of Accounting?
Responsibilities include overseeing accounting operations, preparing financial statements, maintaining internal controls, supervising accounting teams, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and supporting executive leadership with financial insight.
What career progression is available for a Head of Accounting?
Heads of Accounting commonly progress into Financial Controller, Accounting Director, Chief Accounting Officer, Chief Financial Officer or broader executive finance leadership positions.