Financial Accountant – 12‑Month Maternity Cover

About the role

This 12‑month fixed‑term position supports a large charity during a maternity leave period. Reporting to the Financial Accounting Manager, you will ensure robust financial controls, statutory compliance and high‑quality reporting for the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare accurate balance‑sheet reconciliations and maintain the integrity of financial records.
• Manage cash‑flow and treasury activities, monitoring liquidity and supporting cash‑management processes.
• Post complex journals as part of month‑end and year‑end close cycles.
• Produce and submit quarterly VAT returns in line with legislation.
• Support year‑end statutory accounts by preparing audit schedules and liaising with external auditors.
• Maintain and improve finance policies, procedures and internal controls.
• Provide technical accounting advice and contribute to continuous improvement of financial processes.
• Collaborate with finance colleagues to deliver timely, high‑quality financial information.

Required profile

• Previous charity sector experience with strong knowledge of fund accounting and the Charities SORP.
• Professional accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) or near qualification with no more than two exams remaining.
• Experience in a Financial Accountant role or external audit with significant charity exposure.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build effective relationships across the organisation.
• Proactive, detail‑oriented and committed to continuous improvement.

Required skills

• Charities SORP
• Fund accounting
• Statutory reporting
• VAT compliance
• Balance‑sheet reconciliation
• Cash‑flow management
• Journal posting
• Audit schedule preparation