Interim Head of Financial Reporting Manager

Communicate are supporting a listed retailer, as they look to bring on a Head of Financial Reporting Manager on a contract basis.

This role involves overseeing the preparation and review of consolidated financial statements for the Group and its subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, and managing the annual audit and interim review process. The successful candidate will also be responsible for providing technical accounting advice, managing a small team, and driving process improvements across the finance function.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the preparation and review of consolidated financial statements for the Group, ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards and regulations.
• Liaise with external auditors and senior management to ensure appropriate accounting treatments are applied during reporting periods.
• Prepare and review accounting papers for key accounting policies and finance reviews for Group financial statements.
• Manage the annual audit and interim review process, acting as the primary contact for the external audit team.
• Lead and manage the Group Financial Accountant, ensuring high standards of work and providing guidance and development opportunities.
• Provide technical accounting expertise for new accounting standards, acquisitions, disposals, and business activities.
• Assist in preparing corporate models and scenarios for refinancing, M&A, and other projects as required.
• Oversee quarterly and ad-hoc reporting to lenders, ensuring compliance with financial covenants.
• Act as a key contact for the Group's banks and provide support to the Finance Director with payment approvals.
• Manage corporation tax matters, including deferred tax calculations, liaising with tax advisors, and contributing to tax planning activities.
• Review monthly management accounts and ensure consistency, accuracy, and useful commentary for the Board.
• Ensure appropriate working capital treatment within the cash flow statement and maintain quarterly reconciliations.
• Drive improvements in financial processes, controls, and reporting across the finance team.
• Perform additional analysis and activities to assist the Finance Director as required.

Qualifications and Competencies:

• Qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA or equivalent) with at least 4 years post-qualification experience.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, with experience in interpreting and applying new accounting standards.
• Previous experience in a listed environment is highly desirable.
• Strong financial modelling and Excel skills, with experience in complex business models for group valuations and forecasts.
• Immediately available/can start in January.