Head of Financial Accounting

Job Description

Lead on financial accounting and tax for an International music education organisation.

The Organisation This is a large, well-established UK-based charity operating at national and international scale. The organisation generates significant annual income, with a substantial proportion derived from overseas activity, and manages complex operations across multiple jurisdictions.
Its work reaches a very large global audience through a mix of services, products, and digital platforms. The organisation is in a period of continued development and international growth, which has increased the importance of strong financial governance, technical expertise, and effective leadership within the finance function.
As part of this evolution, the organisation is strengthening its senior finance team to ensure robust controls, high quality reporting, and compliance across an increasingly complex operating environment.
The Role The organisation is seeking an experienced Head of Financial Accounting to lead statutory reporting, financial controls, and tax compliance. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, this role is a key part of the senior finance leadership team and oversees one of three core finance functions, working closely with colleagues responsible for planning, analysis, and transactional finance.
You will be responsible for the monthly close, preparation of statutory accounts in line with relevant regulatory and charity reporting requirements, and management of the external audit process. The role also has accountability for UK and international tax compliance, working with external advisers as required.

In addition, you will play a central role in strengthening financial controls, overseeing treasury and cashflow management, driving process and systems improvements, and providing technical and commercial advice to senior stakeholders. The role is critical in ensuring financial integrity and consistent standards of governance across a diverse and evolving organisation.
The Person The organisation is looking for a qualified finance professional (ACA, ACCA or equivalent) with strong technical expertise in financial accounting and tax. The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Significant experience in statutory reporting, financial accounting, and audit management
• Strong technical knowledge of UK accounting standards and relevant reporting frameworks
• Experience working within a complex or international organisation, including exposure to cross-border considerations
• A proven ability to improve financial controls and lead change initiatives
• Strong communication skills, with the confidence to advise and influence senior leaders
• Effective people leadership skills, with experience developing and managing high-performing teams

What’s on Offer

• A senior leadership role with real influence and visibility
• The opportunity to shape financial governance during a period of organisational change and growth
• Work within a purpose-led organisation with a meaningful mission
• A competitive salary and benefits package, including pension provision, generous annual leave, and flexible working arrangements
• Ongoing professional development and learning opportunities
• A collaborative and supportive working culture

How to Apply ABRSM are working in partnership with Hays Senior Finance to identify the right person for this role. Please contact Peter O’Sullivan at Hays if you have any queries, but the first step towards being considered is to make your application. If suitable, Peter will follow up with a call to discuss next steps. # 4754310