Financial Accountant
We are seeking a skilled Financial Accountant to support our Finance Director in ensuring accurate financial reporting, cost control, and compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
* Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
* Ensure proper reconciliation of accounts, including inventory, cost of goods sold, and production expenses.
* Monitor and analyse production costs, raw material usage, and inventory valuation.
* Collaborate with production teams to track and control manufacturing expenses.
* Provide variance analysis between actual costs and budgeted costs, identifying areas of inefficiency.
* Assist in the development of budgets for operational and capital expenditures.
* Create financial forecasts to support business planning and decision-making.
* Track and report budget performance, addressing any discrepancies.
* Ensure compliance with tax regulations, including but not limited to VAT, corporate tax and payroll taxes.
* Liaise with external auditors during annual audits and implement audit recommendations.
* Manage cash flow to ensure sufficient funds for operations and investments.
* Oversee accounts payable and receivable, ensuring timely payments and collections.
* Work with banks and financial institutions to optimise banking relationships.
* Implement and improve financial systems to support accurate and efficient reporting.
* Automate routine tasks and ensure robust controls over financial data.
* Train staff on financial policies and use of accounting software.
* Provide insights to senior management on financial performance and growth opportunities.
* Conduct financial analysis to assess investment opportunities or cost-saving measures.
* Participate in strategic projects, such as expansions, mergers, or acquisitions.
Qualifications & Experience:
* A 3rd level qualification in Accounting, Finance or related field.
* Professional certification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CPA, CIMA).
* Previous experience in financial accounting, ideally within a manufacturing environment is a distinct advantage.
* Proven track record of inventory management and cost accounting processes.
* Analytical Skills: Strong ability to interpret financial data and identify trends.
* Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy in reports and reconciliations.
* Knowledge of Industry Standards: Understanding of cost accounting specific to food production.
* Communication: Effectively communicates financial insights to non-finance stakeholders.
* Problem-Solving: Proactively identifies and addresses financial and operational issues.
* Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, QuickBooks) and advanced Excel skills.
* Organisational Skills: An ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
* Team Player: An ability to collaborate across departments and with external partners.