Interim Head of Central Accounting

I am currently recruiting an Interim Head of Central Accounting on behalf of the University of Cambridge. The role is offered on a 12 month, fixed term contract basis. 

As the leader for the Central Accounting team, you will ensure strategic and operational success through innovation, planning, organisational effectiveness and delivery.  The role manages the core accounting for a complex, diverse organisation with approximately £1.5bn in total revenue across multiple income streams.

The successful candidate will have earned credibility by operating within formal governance structures such as board, finance and audit committees, in large and complex organisations.

As Interim Head of Central Accounting you will:

• Manage the core General Ledger and other associated modules to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and security of all financial data to full trial balance, while facilitating appropriate access to all relevant stakeholders.
• Manage the complex year end and audit process for the Academic University, delivering a high quality and timely financial close process
• Manage monthly reporting of I&E and balance sheet information into the University Group’s consolidation system
• Own the development and updating of the financial rules and guidance in which the financial community operates including the communication and training thereof
• Develop and oversee the first and therefore completely new Research Financial Assurance Framework for the University
• Provide leadership to a dedicated team of approximately 8-10 finance professionals

Interested candidates will be qualified with significant post qualification experience.

Other requirements include;

• Experience with both managing and using complex accounting and reporting software
• Good working knowledge of current UK financial reporting standards (UK GAAP)
• A strategic thinker also able to work at a detailed level
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively across all levels of the organisation
• Knowledge of the Further and Higher Education SORP is desirable
• Knowledge of Oracle financials would be desirable