Finance systems accountant

Sense are recruiting for a Finance Systems Accountant to join our finance team in Birmingham. This is a permanent opportunity, working 37.5 per week on a hybrid basis with 2-3 days on site at our office in Selly Oak.

As Finance Systems Accountant, you will shape the future of Sense’s finance systems, leading digital innovation across finance with a strong focus on automation, system optimisation and the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI). This is a strategic and forward-looking role at the heart of our finance transformation. You will lead the design, implementation and enhancement of finance systems, oversee monthly management accounts and lead a small team, drive automation and AI-enabled improvements, and strengthen financial controls, data integrity and reporting insight.

• Manage the daily operation of all finance systems, ensuring reliability, performance and accuracy.
• Act as primary liaison with our external technology partner.
• Oversee system upgrades, updates and enhancements — including planning, testing and communication.
• Proactively monitor system risks and identify improvement opportunities.
• Ensure finance data is accessible, reliable and fit for purpose across the organisation.

• Lead implementation of new finance systems and enhancements to existing platforms.
• Identify and implement automation and AI-enabled tools (e.g. workflow automation, intelligent reconciliation, enhanced analytics).
• Partner with technology teams and vendors to ensure secure and compliant integration.
• Evaluate emerging technologies that improve scalability, insight and efficiency.

• Analyse end-to-end finance processes to identify automation and standardisation opportunities.
• Develop and maintain clear process maps and documentation.
• Champion continuous improvement while maintaining robust governance and controls.

• Ensure data accuracy, consistency and integrity across finance systems.
• Enhance reporting and dashboards, including AI-supported analytics for forecasting and trend analysis.
• Ensure transparency, auditability and control over AI-enabled tools.

• Lead and develop the Management Accounts team (x2).
• Act as the main point of contact for finance systems queries and training.
• Support colleagues to build confidence in new systems and tools.
• Engage stakeholders at all levels to deliver practical, user-focused solutions.

• Maintain strong system-based financial controls.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, data protection and organisational standards.
• Support internal and external audit processes.
• Contribute to development of finance, technology and data policies.

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience.
• Strong understanding of core finance processes and finance systems architecture.
• Experience implementing, upgrading or supporting ERP systems, purchase order systems or budgeting tools.
• Demonstrable experience driving automation or system-enabled efficiencies.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insight.
• Project management experience and knowledge of change delivery methodologies.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proven people management experience, leading teams to high performance.
• Clear and sustained commitment to building an inclusive, diverse workforce aligned with the communities we serve.

• Experience with Sun Accounting System.
• Experience with Jedox or similar budgeting/forecasting tools.
• Experience with Power BI or similar visualisation tools.
• Exposure to AI-enabled finance tools.
• Understanding of data governance and ethical AI use in a regulated environment.