Financial Accountant

This is a hands-on role responsible for accurate financial reporting, balance sheet management, VAT and payroll accounting, statutory compliance and external audit coordination. Role Responsibilities: Skills & Experience Financial Accounting & Reporting Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports in accordance with UK GAAP (FRS 102). Support month-end and year-end close processes across multiple legal entities. Prepare and review journals, accruals, prepayments, provisions and fixed asset accounting. Balance Sheet Management & Financial Controls Take ownership of monthly balance sheet reconciliations across multiple entities. Ensure all accounts are accurately reconciled, supported and reviewed. Investigate and resolve aged balances, discrepancies and unreconciled items. VAT & Tax Compliance Prepare, reconcile and submit accurate UK VAT returns within statutory deadlines. Ensure compliance with HMRC regulations and Making Tax Digital requirements. Investigate VAT discrepancies and maintain supporting documentation. Payroll Accounting & Reporting Review and reconcile payroll journals and payroll control accounts. Ensure accurate accounting for PAYE, National Insurance, pensions, bonuses and other payroll-related costs. Support payroll statutory reporting and HMRC compliance requirements. Audit & Statutory Compliance Coordinate external audit activities, including preparation of audit schedules and supporting documentation. Act as a key contact for external auditors and manage audit queries. Support preparation of statutory accounts in accordance with UK GAAP. Multi-Entity Accounting & Process Improvement Manage accounting activities across multiple legal entities in a high-volume transactional environment. Work closely with accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll and operational finance teams. Ensure accurate intercompany balances and consistent accounting practices.

We are seeking a highly motivated, technically strong and detail-oriented Financial Accountant to join our Finance team. The successful candidate will have at least five years' experience in a fast-paced, multi-entity organisation handling high volumes of financial transactions.,

• ACCA or ACA qualified or finalist, actively progressing towards qualification.
• Minimum five years' relevant finance experience, preferably within a fast-moving, multi-entity organisation.
• Proven experience handling high volumes of financial transactions.
• Strong knowledge of UK GAAP, particularly FRS 102, and statutory reporting requirements.
• Solid experience in financial reporting, month-end close and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Practical experience in UK VAT accounting and compliance.
• Good understanding of payroll accounting, PAYE and National Insurance.
• Experience coordinating external audits and preparing statutory accounting schedules.
• Strong general ledger and intercompany accounting experience.
• Advanced Excel skills and proficiency with accounting or ERP systems.
We are looking for a hands-on, technically capable and highly detail-oriented Financial Accountant who thrives in a demanding, multi-entity environment. The successful candidate will take ownership of financial reporting and balance sheet integrity, maintain high standards of accuracy and compliance, and contribute proactively to the efficiency and effectiveness of the Finance function. If you're a collaborative, solution-focused professional who thrives in a busy and purposeful environment, we'd love to hear from you. Join us and be part of a team that is transforming lives through the power of food, making a genuine difference for students across the UK.

At Impact Food Group, we're more than just a school caterer. We're on a mission to create a positive food culture and help more students enjoy healthier, better-quality food. Making a positive social impact is at the heart of everything we do. We're constantly learning, evolving, and improving - every way, every day. Through our industry-leading brands - Innovate, Dolce, Hutchison, Cucina, and Chapter One - we cater for over 800,000 students and operate in more than 1500 schools nationwide, growing every year. We're now looking for a talented and highly organised Financial Accountant to join and play a vital role in supporting our business. Guided by our values, integrity, bold, impactful, humble and community; you will help us shape a workplace and culture we can all be proud of.

Monday to Friday working 25 days holiday plus bank holidays Access to IFG rewards (money off high street) Yearly Summer Party Centrally based offices.