Financial Accountant

Your new companyA leading retail business based in Milton Keynes is seeking a driven and detail-oriented Financial Accountant to join their high-performing finance team. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a rapidly evolving organisation with a strong brand presence, a collaborative culture, and a commitment to continuous improvement.Your new roleAs the Financial Accountant, you will play a key role in the financial control and reporting function. You will take ownership of month-end and year-end processes, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance with internal and external reporting standards. You will work closely with both finance and operational teams to deliver high-quality financial information that supports commercial decision-making. Key responsibilities:

• Lead the month-end close process, including journals, accruals, reconciliations, and variance analysis
• Manage the year-end statutory accounts process and liaise with external auditors
• Ensure balance sheet integrity through robust reconciliations and controls
• Support budgeting and forecasting cycles with accurate financial data
• Provide insightful commentary on financial performance to senior stakeholders
• Drive process improvements and support systems enhancements
• Assist with VAT, tax compliance, and ad-hoc financial projects as required

What you'll need to succeed

• Fully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) - ideally newly qualified to 2 years PQE
• Strong technical accounting skills with experience of month-end and year-end
• Previous experience in retail, FMCG, or a multi-site environment is advantageous
• Excellent attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving
• Strong communication skills and ability to influence non-finance stakeholders
• Advanced Excel skills

What you'll get in return

• Competitive salary of £50,000-£55,000
• Opportunities for progression within a growing finance team
• Supportive and collaborative company culture
• Comprehensive benefits package

What you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Hays EA is a trading division of Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited and acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk