Head of Financial Accounting

The University is seeking to appoint an experienced Head of Financial Accounting to join its finance leadership team in a permanent remit. Reporting directly to the Financial Controller, this role will play a critical role in ensuring the integrity, accuracy and timely delivery of all financial accounting and reporting activities.

• Lead the month-end and year-end close processes
• Prepare and review statutory financial statements in line with UK GAAP
• Support and coordinate external audit activity
• Oversee balance sheet reconciliations, journals and financial controls
• Manage cashflow and treasury reporting activities
• Supervise and develop a small financial accounting team
• Drive process improvements across the finance function
• Support budgeting, forecasting and financial planning activity
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting and regulatory standards

We are looking for a qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent) with:

• Relevant financial accounting and reporting experience
• Strong technical accounting knowledge including UK GAAP
• Experience leading or mentoring finance teams
• A hands‑on, detail‑oriented approach
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• The ability to work effectively in a deadline‑driven environment

Experience with in the research, education, public sector or regulated environments would be advantageous, but is not essential.

• Immediate impact role within a well‑established organisation
• Hybrid working environment
• Opportunity to lead a capable finance team through a key reporting period
• Collaborative and supportive senior leadership team

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase diversity in our community. Therefore, we particularly encourage applications from under‑represented groups such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, women and people with disabilities.