Head of Accounting and Internal Controls

We are looking for an strong technical Financial Accountant to be the Head of Accounting and Internal Controls for an incredible new start up here in the UK. Based in the heart of Central London this person will oversee activities of the accounting department and be responsible for maintaining effective internal controls. This role will also oversee tax compliance including VAT, PAYE, CIT, and other tax matters in partnership with the Tax Department and external advisors.  The Head of Accounting and Internal Controls is charged with motivating, developing, and creating the accounting departmental culture and vision, and managing the annual audit process.

Job Responsibilities:

Finance and Accounting:

• Reporting to the CFO, this person will be responsible for leading accounting department in the preparation of accounts and partnering with the CFO and Group Corporate Accounting in the preparation of financial statements.
• Responsible for ensuring accounting compliance with generally accepted accounting principles. Leads accounting department initiatives.
• Collaborates with the Financial Planning department regarding revenue accruals and provisions for doubtful accounts.
• Collaborates with Corporate Tax department and external tax advisors.
• Collaborates with the Payroll and Benefits team regarding payroll processing; Insurance and Risk Management department regarding insurance and indemnity policies, claims, and related accounting matters and with the legal team on financial and accounting matters as necessary.

Internal Controls

• Conducts an annual risk assessment.
• Evaluates the adequacy and effectiveness of controls intended to ensure the safeguarding of assets and reducing or recovering costs.
• Proposes recommendations to reduce risk based upon observed and confirmed control weaknesses and communicates to Institute and Departmental Leadership
• Leads meetings with Institute and Departmental Leadership to review findings

Audit and Governance

• Collaborates with Finance and external auditor’s staff to assure effective completion of the external audit objectives.
• Represents the Finance department on internal governance committees as agreed with the CFO.

We are looking for a Graduate calibre, CCAB Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or CPA, or overseas equivalent) with a demonstrable track record over multiple roles. Possessing comprehensive knowledge of auditing standards, analytical techniques and internal controls. Ideally with exposure to both UK and US accounting principles required. SOX and other compliance experience relating to US accounting is also preferred. Experience of setting up audit controls and structures advantageous. An experienced team manager with strong supervisory experience.