Interim Accountant

Position: Management Accountant with Systems Implementation Experience
Location: Stratford Upon Avon
Reports To: Finance Director
Type: Temporary
Duration: 3 - 6 months

Job Purpose:
We are seeking a highly skilled Management Accountant with a strong background in systems implementation to join our dynamic finance team on an interim basis. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing financial reporting, analysis, budgeting, and forecasting, while also playing a key role in the successful implementation and optimization of finance systems. This role combines traditional accounting duties with technical expertise in driving system improvements and ensuring the seamless integration of financial systems across the organization.

Key Responsibilities:
Financial Management & Reporting:
Prepare, analyse, and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, including variance analysis and financial commentary.

Assist in the preparation of budgets and forecasts, ensuring accuracy and alignment with business objectives.

Oversee the preparation of monthly management accounts, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and company policies.

Manage cost accounting, including tracking of expenses and advising on cost control measures.

Support the Finance Director in preparing financial statements and reports for stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

Systems Implementation & Optimization:
Lead or contribute to the implementation of new financial systems (e.g., ERP, accounting software) ensuring seamless integration into existing processes.

Collaborate with IT and finance teams to define system requirements, and provide financial expertise in configuring and customizing the system to meet business needs.

Perform system testing, troubleshoot issues, and work with stakeholders to ensure the system functions as intended.

Develop and deliver training for staff on new financial systems, ensuring smooth adoption across the finance team.

Continuously identify opportunities for system enhancements to improve financial processes, data accuracy, and reporting efficiency.

Process Improvement:
Analyze financial data and identify areas for improvement in processes, systems, and reporting to optimize efficiency and accuracy.

Implement best practices for financial systems and reporting tools, streamlining workflow and reducing manual interventions.

Collaborate with other departments to ensure that financial data flows seamlessly across systems and processes.

Compliance & Governance:
Ensure adherence to accounting policies, internal controls, and statutory regulations during systems implementation and ongoing financial operations.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in accounting standards, tax laws, and best practices in financial systems.

Ad Hoc Projects:
Support in strategic financial projects and initiatives as required.

Assist with system upgrades, audits, and other special projects related to financial management and systems.

Key Skills & Experience:
Essential:
Accounting Qualifications: ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent.

Experience: A minimum of 3-5 years' experience in a management accounting role, with experience of systems implementation or finance system upgrades.

Systems Knowledge: Strong understanding of financial systems, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite), and accounting software.

Project Management: Proven experience managing or contributing to the implementation of financial systems or software.

Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze financial data and produce meaningful insights to guide decision-making.

Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in both accounting and system configuration.

Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to train and support staff in system usage.

Desirable:
Experience with specific systems (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, Xero) or project management tools.