Head Service Charge Accounting

Are you an experienced finance leader with a strong background in service charge accounting? Would you be passionate driving financial strategy and managing high-value property portfolios? Want to work for a high performing industry leading organisation with impressive staff retention this could be the job for you!

We are recruiting for a market-leading property development and management organisation, renowned for its expansive residential and commercial property portfolio. With an impressive track record of delivering high-quality developments, this company is seeking a Head Service Charge Accounting to lead their financial operations within their property management division.

As the Head Service Charge Accounting, you will report directly to the Director of Property Management and assume overall responsibility for the financial oversight of a substantial portfolio, managing all aspects of service charge accounting and financial reporting. You will lead and mentor a dedicated finance team, ensuring robust financial controls, compliance with accounting regulations, and accurate service charge budgeting and reconciliation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the financial year-end process for service charge accounts across a diverse and complex portfolio.
• Manage the annual budget-setting process, supporting the preparation of utility and staffing forecasts.
• Ensure all service charges, rent, and balancing charges are accurately billed and compliant with lease terms and statutory requirements.
• Oversee monthly management accounts, including corporation tax provisions and depreciation journals.
• Drive forward process improvements, ensuring efficient financial operations and robust internal controls.
• Act as the main point of contact for tax, VAT, and complex accounting queries, providing strategic financial insights.
• Mentor a team of finance professionals, fostering a high-performance culture focused on development and collaboration.
• Collaborate with senior leaders to deliver actionable financial insights that influence business strategy.

We are looking for an accomplished finance professional with a solid background in property management and service charge accounting. You will bring a strong understanding of UK accounting standards, VAT regulations, and service charge legislation. Your experience in leading finance teams and optimising financial processes will be key to driving the department's success. Based near Chigwell in Essex this role required regular office attendance.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in a senior finance role within property management or real estate or social housing sectors
• Extensive knowledge of service charge accounting and financial management.
• Strong expertise in Excel (PivotTables, VLOOKUPs, XLOOKUPs, etc.).
• Ability to lead and develop high-performing finance teams.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of presenting complex financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders.

If you're ready to make an impact in a role that offers both strategic influence and hands-on financial leadership, we want to hear from you!