Deputy Financial Controller

MLC Partners are delighted to be supporting a UK university in the recruitment of an experienced Financial Accountant for an initial six-month interim contract, with an immediate start.

This position will play an important part in the University’s year-end reporting programme. The post holder will take ownership of the consolidated statutory accounts process and help ensure the external audit is completed efficiently and to schedule.

Key responsibilities

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• Manage the preparation of the University’s consolidated statutory financial statements and related disclosures.
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• Produce accurate year-end schedules, balance sheet reconciliations and audit-ready working papers.
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• Act as a key contact for the external auditors, coordinating requests and providing timely, comprehensive responses.
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• Ensure accounting records and supporting audit evidence are complete, accurate and clearly organised.
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• Investigate and resolve technical accounting and group consolidation matters.
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• Collaborate with finance teams and senior stakeholders to meet year-end reporting deadlines.
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• Document key accounting procedures and prepare clear process guidance for future reporting periods.
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• Contribute to the continued development of year-end controls, reporting practices and financial documentation.
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About you

You will hold a recognised accounting qualification, such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent, and have significant experience in statutory reporting, year-end accounts preparation and external audit.

Previous experience within the public sector is essential. Candidates with experience in higher education or the wider education sector will be particularly well suited to the role.

You will also bring:

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• Sound technical knowledge of UK accounting requirements, particularly FRS 102.
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• Practical experience of producing consolidated accounts in a group, large-scale or complex organisation.
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• A thorough understanding of financial controls, balance sheet reconciliations and audit processes.
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• A successful track record of working with external auditors and managing audit queries through to resolution.
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• Advanced Excel skills, supported by strong analytical, reconciliation and problem-solving abilities.
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• The confidence to work autonomously, prioritise a demanding workload and maintain quality under tight deadlines.
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• Excellent attention to detail and a structured approach to record-keeping and supporting documentation.
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• Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills.
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• The ability to quickly become familiar with established finance systems, processes and accounting records.
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Knowledge of the higher education Statement of Recommended Practice would be an additional advantage.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so please apply at your earliest opportunity or contact Briar at MLC Partners for a confidential discussion.