An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Group Financial Accountant to join our Finance team at our Carlisle Head Office.
We are looking for a technically strong, commercially aware finance professional who can combine excellent accounting knowledge with a proactive, hands‑on approach. The successful candidate will be confident working across a Group structure, building effective relationships with key stakeholders and delivering accurate, timely financial information in a fast‑paced retail environment.
The Opportunity
The Group Financial Accountant delivers accurate, timely consolidated financial information and ensures compliance with UK GAAP, FRS 101, FRS 102, and other applicable standards.
The role supports statutory reporting, audit coordination, financial controls, and Group‑wide accounting, while providing senior management with insight and driving continuous improvement in systems and processes.
Key Responsibilities
Group Consolidation & Reporting
- Prepare annual consolidated financial statements in accordance with UK GAAP and applicable FRS requirements
- Produce consolidated EBITA flash reports, Board packs, and concise performance commentary
- Maintain and enhance consolidation systems
- Prepare statutory accounts for holding companies and subsidiaries
Statutory & Regulatory Compliance
- Coordinate annual audits and liaise with external auditors and regional audit teams
- Ensure compliance with Companies House, HMRC, VAT, Intrastat, and other regulatory requirements
- Support the Group Finance Director and Group Tax Manager with the annual HMRC Business Review
- Maintain the ERPx general ledger and reconcile balance sheets for Group holding companies and relevant subsidiaries
- Review and strengthen internal controls, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency
- Oversee intercompany reconciliations and centrally managed accounting adjustments
- Develop budgeting and forecasting models in ERPx and create standard templates
- Develop and own the lease accounting system and statutory reporting
Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis
- Support Group budgeting, including consolidated balance sheets and cash flow statements
- Analyse variances, trends, and significant transactions, providing insight to senior management and operational teams
- Maintain Group cash flow forecasts and recommend investment actions where appropriate
Stakeholder Engagement & Cross-Functional Support
- Partner with regional finance teams, business units, and non‑finance stakeholders to resolve accounting issues and support decisions
- Provide financial information to the Board, Executive Committee, shareholders, lenders, and other external stakeholders
- Serve as a key contact for auditors and regulatory bodies
- Develop financial systems and reporting tools to improve accuracy and efficiency
- Contribute to strategic projects and implement new accounting and reporting requirements
Requirements & Qualifications
Professional Qualification:
- ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or an equivalent qualification
Experience:
- Experience in statutory accounting and Group reporting
- Experience with consolidations, multi‑entity structures, and multi‑currency environments
- Experience liaising with auditors and preparing audit schedules
Technical Knowledge:
- Strong knowledge of UK GAAP, FRS 101/102, and consolidation principles
- Knowledge of foreign currency accounting
- Knowledge of VAT, corporation tax, and deferred tax accounting
Skills:
- Proficiency with ERP and consolidation systems
- Advanced Excel skills and strong general IT literacy
- Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain financial information clearly to non‑finance audiences
- Ability to prioritise competing demands, meet deadlines, and work independently
- Analytical judgement and practical problem‑solving
- Effective organisation and time management
- Integrity, discretion, and sound professional judgement
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