The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. Set within its Guildford-campus, its 2500 staff provide exceptional teaching and practical learning to over 15,000 students. A home to research excellence, Surrey provides world-class research facilities and an environment to nurture, develop academic research into real world commercial applications.
With an already strong global reputation, operating branch campuses internationally the University of Surrey is further developing its international footprint, through establishing new overseas branch campuses, and joint institutes subsidiaries.
The University is seeking to appoint an experienced Head of Financial Accounting to join its finance leadership team in a permanent remit. Reporting directly to the Financial Controller, this role will play a critical role in ensuring the integrity, accuracy and timely delivery of all financial accounting and reporting activities.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the month-end and year-end close processes
Prepare and review statutory financial statements in line with UK GAAP
Support and coordinate external audit activity
Oversee balance sheet reconciliations, journals and financial controls
Manage cashflow and treasury reporting activities
Supervise and develop a small financial accounting team
Drive process improvements across the finance function
Support budgeting, forecasting and financial planning activity
Ensure compliance with relevant accounting and regulatory standards
About You
We are looking for a qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent) with:
Relevant financial accounting and reporting experience
Strong technical accounting knowledge including UK GAAP
Experience leading or mentoring finance teams
A hands-on, detail-oriented approach
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
The ability to work effectively in a deadline-driven environment
Experience within the research, education, public sector or regulated environments would be advantageous, but is not essential.
What’s on Offer
Immediate impact role within a well-established organisation
Hybrid working environment
Opportunity to lead a capable finance team through a key reporting period
Collaborative and supportive senior leadership team
How to Apply
To discuss this opportunity in confidence or apply, please visit University of Surrey – Head of Financial Accounting – Campaigns at The McLean Partnership where a full job spec is available.
For an informal and confidential conversation before applying, please get in touch with Caius Freeman at
[email protected].
The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase diversity in our community. Therefore, we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, women and people with disabilities
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Job Details
Department
Financial Accounting
Location
Guildford
Salary
Competitive Salary
Post Type
Full Time
Closing Date
23.59 hours BST on Wednesday 23 September 2026
Interview Date
To be confirmed
Reference
027926-R
