Accounting Manager

Accounting Manager | Defence Sector | Hybrid Working An exciting opportunity has arisen for a qualified Accounting Manager to join a growing finance function within a leading defence organisation. This role sits within Central Finance and is responsible for leading the month end close process, maintaining a robust financial control environment, and delivering accurate financial reporting to senior stakeholders. This position would suit an experienced Accounting Manager or a first time mover from Audit/Practice looking to transition into industry.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead and coordinate the end-to-end month end close process across multiple business areas
• Prepare and review journals, balance sheet reconciliations and monthly management accounts
• Analyse financial performance, providing commentary on key variances, trends, risks and opportunities
• Ensure compliance with internal controls, audit requirements, US GAAP and UK GAAP standards
• Act as the lead contact for external auditors, providing supporting documentation and technical accounting guidance
• Partner closely with FP&A, Treasury, Tax and wider finance teams to ensure accurate and consistent reporting
• Manage, mentor and develop accounting staff, supporting performance and career development
• Drive process improvements, automation initiatives and finance transformation projects, including ERP enhancements and system implementations Requirements
• Fully qualified ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent
• Strong accounting and financial reporting experience within a corporate or central finance environment
• Previous responsibility for month-end close, financial controls and balance sheet management
• Experience working within SAP or a similar ERP system
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information
• Excellent stakeholder management and leadership capabilities
• Eligibility to obtain SC Security Clearance

Desirable Experience
• Background within Audit or a Big 4/Mid-Tier Practice environment
• Experience with in a US-owned organisation or knowledge of US GAAP reporting requirements
• Exposure to internal and external audits, SOX controls or wider governance frameworks
• Experience supporting ERP transformation, finance process improvement or system implementation projects This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable and growing organisation offering strong career progression, exposure to senior leadership, and the chance to play a key role in shaping the future of the finance function.