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Group Financial Accountant

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Group Financial Accountant
Coventry University Location: Coventry Salary: Competitive starting salary range from £46,115 up to £52,597 (dependent on experience), with potential for progression. Exceptional candidates may receive a discretionary variation.
About Coventry University Group
Coventry University Group is a global education organisation driven by its mission, "Creating Better Futures". Each role contributes to the Group’s progress in communities worldwide, powered by transformative education and research. Our people are central to this success.
The Role
As a Group Financial Accountant, you will join the leadership team of the Finance Department and take on key responsibilities:
- Lead the control and preparation of the group’s annual financial statements, ensuring compliance with submission deadlines.
- Review balance sheet control risk reconciliations and analyse risks, documenting findings on the appropriate risk register.
- Own the planning, delivery, monitoring and review of the annual financial statements for the University Group:
- Collaborate with relevant directors to finalise subsidiary company draft financial statements for approval by Subsidiaries Company Board of Directors.
- Prepare end-of-year audit files and supporting documentation for review.
- Work closely with external auditors to resolve queries and meet deadlines.
- Oversee post-audit amendments before formal sign-off of group accounts.
- Develop and support regular cash flow reporting and forecasts at company level to optimise cash management and investment strategies.
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Responsibilities
- Ensure accuracy and timeliness of statutory accounting and reporting.
- Collaborate with auditors and internal teams to resolve financial discrepancies and enhance reporting quality.
- Enhance cash flow management and financial forecasting processes.
- Maintain compliance with UK accounting principles, including SORP (Statement of Recommended Practice) for Higher Education.
- Provide strategic financial guidance to executive teams.
Requirements
- Qualified accountant (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with at least associate membership—fellowship preferred.
- Professional industry experience (minimum 3–5 years) in financial accounting, with expertise in statutory reporting, particularly within Higher Education (advantageous).
- Proven ability to prepare statutory accounts and liaise with external auditors.
- Deep knowledge of cash flow planning, reconciliations, and balance control account management.
- Familiarity with UK financial regulations relevant to higher education institutions.
- High proficiency in ICT, strong planning and organisational skills, and an inquisitive analytical approach to problem-solving.
- Experience in an accounting leadership role within a Finance department is advantageous.


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About You
- Passionate about excellence in financial governance and high standards of ethical practice.
- Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion—an essential aspect of our global education values.
- Skilled in collaborating across teams while driving forward institutional financial strategy.
Benefits
An extensive and industry-leading rewards package:
- Generous pension contribution
- 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- New holiday purchase scheme (up to additional 5 days)
- BUPA Cash Plan (healthcare benefits)
- 50% discount on tuition fees for staff dependants
- CU Reward Scheme – discounts across high-street, online retailers, and brands
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Competitive salary progression opportunities
Our Culture
Equality, diversity, and inclusion are core values at Coventry University Group. We celebrate diverse talents, backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives, fostering a culture where everyone thrives.
For more information and to apply, visit our website: [link/to/apply].
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