My client is the biggest card and gift retailer in the UK and is currently looking for a Finance Manager to join their growing finance team in Loughton for a year maternity cover. They have over 400 stores across the UK and are still growing. The role will assist the work of the Financial Controller in all areas of management and financial accounting. The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with experience managing rental properties and retail operations.

Role responsibilities:

• Review of the monthly management accounts and corresponding US reporting, including departmental profit and loss accounts and variance analysis.
• Managing a team of 4 management accountants providing guidance and assistance where necessary.
• Primarily responsible for all store, DC and head office rent accounting, service charges, insurance via management of the outsourced accounting function.
• Review of all Balance Sheet reconciliations on a monthly basis.
• Preparation of the annual FRS102 statutory financial statements and prepare /review supporting schedules for year-end audit requirements. Assist external auditors as required.
• Monitoring and evaluation of financial information processes suggesting improvements where needed in alignment with SOX.
• Provide support on specific projects and assist with providing information for business planning/forecasts and the annual budgeting process.
• To undertake other / ad hoc duties commensurate with the role, as required

Role Essential Skills:

• ACA, ACCA or ACMA qualified
• Significant experience of property/rent accounting
• Substantial experience within a similar accounting role and strong analytical skills
• You will be able to demonstrate your experience of managing a small accounting team
• Enthusiastic team player with an ability to adapt to change
• Advanced software skills including Excel and experience of JDA and SOX an advantage
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Well organised and disciplined with regard to meeting deadlines