Accounts Manager

A leading research-led organisation within the higher education and life sciences sector is seeking an Accounts Manager to join its finance team on a fixed-term basis until September 2026. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a fast-paced, complex environment supporting high-value research activity with global impact.

Reporting to a senior finance lead, you will provide comprehensive accounts management support across general ledger and research grant activity. The role combines hands-on financial processing with advisory responsibilities and people management.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing day-to-day accounting queries and supporting month-end and year-end processes
• Monitoring and reconciling general ledger accounts and supporting budget holders
• Identifying and explaining variances, risks, and forecast overspends
• Translating financial information for non-financial stakeholders
• Liaising with senior academics and project leads on budgets, forecasts, and grant pipelines
• Supporting research grant applications, including costings and compliance with funder terms
• Assisting with debt collection and resolving financial queries promptly
• Identifying and implementing process improvements
• Line managing 2 3 staff members and deputising for the Finance Manager when required

The successful candidate will be an experienced finance professional who is confident operating in a busy, deadline-driven environment and comfortable working with complex funding streams.

Essential requirements:

• Degree-level qualification or AAT Level 4 (or equivalent experience)
• Proven experience in an accounts or finance environment
• Strong Excel and general IT skills
• Experience working to tight deadlines and managing competing priorities
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage non-finance colleagues

Desirable experience:

• Line management experience
• Background in the public sector, higher education, or non-profit organisations
• Experience with research grant administration, including pre- and post-award support
• Familiarity with large or complex finance systems

What s on Offer

• Competitive salary and generous pension
• Hybrid working model
• 33 days + Bank Holidays (Pro-rata)
• Supportive, inclusive working culture
• Opportunity to work in a highly respected research environment

This role would suit someone looking to deepen their experience in research finance while taking on leadership responsibility within a collaborative team.

For more information, please contact Kul Mahal on (phone number removed) or email (url removed).

Closing date for applications is Sunday 22nd February with interviews taking place shortly after.

INDFIN