JOB PURPOSE
The Accountant will be responsible for the school’s financial health, handling high-level financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting. This role requires an individual with extensive accounting expertise, a proactive approach to financial management, and the ability to guide a small team. The ideal candidate should possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the capability to work effectively with school leadership to align financial practices with strategic goals.
OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE
The Accountant maintains the financial integrity of the school by providing financial guidance and support to the Senior Leadership Team, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations and laws.
RELATIONSHIPS
The Accountant is appointed by the Director of Schools in consultation with the HOS and HR.
The Accountant reports directly to the Head of Accounts. However, in the absence of the Head of Accounts, he/she will report to the HOS/DOS who will also provide strategic leadership and day to day oversight. The Accountant works closely with the Accounts team, Admin team, parents/guardians, external auditors; and collaborates with other finance professionals, banks and government agencies.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Financial Management and Reporting:
- Prepare, analyse, and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
- Develop and maintain accounting policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
- Oversee the school’s general ledger, ensuring accuracy and timely reconciliation of accounts.
- Prepare detailed financial reports for management, including budget variances and cash flow projections.
- Budgeting and Forecasting:
- Lead the budgeting process by collaborating with department heads to create an annual budget.
- Monitor budget adherence and provide ongoing financial forecasting.
- Identify and report on budget variances, providing recommendations for corrective actions.
- Audit and Compliance:
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal financial regulations.
- Coordinate and manage the school’s annual audit, preparing necessary documents and addressing any findings.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of accounting standards and ensure all financial activities align with best practices and legal requirements.
- Payroll and Accounts Management:
- Oversee payroll processing, ensuring accuracy and compliance with tax and labour laws.
- Manage accounts payable and receivable functions, ensuring timely payment processing and collection.
- Collaborate with Human Resources on payroll-related tasks, including employee benefits and statutory deductions.
- Financial Analysis and Strategic Support:
- Provide financial insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.
- Analyse financial trends and make data-driven recommendations to optimise school resources.
- Assist in long-term financial planning and capital expenditure management.
- Team Leadership and Development:
- Supervise and mentor junior accounting staff, providing training and support.
- Set performance goals, conduct evaluations, and foster a collaborative work environment.
- Ensure the accuracy and efficiency of all accounting tasks and processes.
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Financial Accuracy & Reporting
- Timeliness of monthly and termly financial reports (e.g., submitted within 3–5 working days of month-end).
- Accuracy of financial statements (minimal adjustments needed during audits).
- Budget variance reporting frequency and accuracy (monthly or termly)
Compliance & Internal Controls
- 100% compliance with tax, regulatory, and audit requirements
- Number of internal control breaches identified and resolved
- Timely filing of statutory returns (e.g., PAYE, VAT, pension)
Budget ManagementPercentage of departments operating within budget (with accountant's support).Time taken to prepare the annual budget (target: completed 1–2 months before new session).Budget forecasting accuracy (variance of less than 10%)
Accounts Payable & Receivable
- Average number of days to process vendor payments.
- Fee collection rate per term (target: 95–100% within due date).
- Reduction in outstanding receivables (tracked monthly)
Team & Stakeholder Support
- Satisfaction rating from budget holders and school leaders (via surveys or feedback).
- Number of financial training sessions or budget reviews held with departments.
- Timely response to internal queries (within 24–48 hours)
Strategic Involvement
- Participation in strategic financial planning or school development projects
- Cost-saving initiatives recommended and implemented.
- Audit findings closed/resolved within set timeframes
SAFEGUARDING
Broadoaks British School is committed to the safeguarding and promotion of the welfare of all children and young people in our care. All staff have a key role and responsibility in this area.
QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; Masters degree preferred.
- Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAN )
- Minimum of 5–7 years of accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or senior role, preferably in an educational or non-profit setting.
- Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and experience with compliance requirements.
- Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage) and advanced skills in Microsoft Excel.
- Proven experience in Asset Management, Asset Tagging, Accounts reconciliation and Inventory management (consumables)
- Knowledge of financial regulations and laws applicable to schools
- Excellent analytical, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
- High attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
- Familiarity with school budgeting and financial operations.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a high level of professionalism and integrity.
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