Principle Accountabilities

• Lead on SCI/SCA global financial accounting policies and processes to meet accounting standards in the UK (for SCI), in Switzerland (for SCA) and other relevant standards in countries where SCI operates or has employees based.
• Provide expertise and support country and global teams to embed best practice on financial accounting matters. Support development of professional financial accounting skills across global and country finance teams; ensuring documentation of policies, procedures, guidance in Quality Framework and appropriate training available.
• Lead on quarterly balance sheet reviews to assess accuracy of financial accounting data and develop action plan to address any weaknesses. Support data governance processes.
• Lead on preparation and review of SCI, SCA and Trading annual statutory Trustees report and financial statements to ensure completeness and accuracy and they meet UK charity and company law reporting requirements (including Charity Commission Return).  Lead on SCA/SCI Going Concern assessments. Support on reporting to Board, Finance Committee, Audit & Risk Committee and Members Meeting to gain approval of SCA, SCI, Trading reporting and accounts.
• Lead on planning, preparation and delivery of SCI and SCA annual  statutory audits. Support with KPMG’s audit strategy and manage day to day relationship with KPMG to deliver efficient and effective audit. Lead on preparation of action plan to address and reduce audit findings, monitor and report on progress against plan.
• Financial accounting Support statutory audits & reporting in country where SCI operates to meet local laws and accounting regulations.
• Lead the Financial Accounting team.

Experience and Skills

Essential

• Extensive knowledge of UK GAAP and substantial experience in financial accounting, demonstrating proficiency in applying complex accounting standards and principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an ability to evaluate complex accounting issues.
• Strong process management skills, with a track record of designing and implementing efficient financial accounting processes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of conveying complex information clearly and effectively to non-finance staff.
• Leadership skills, capable of guiding and inspiring a team towards achieving objectives and best practices.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office suite, particularly Excel and in other financial software.
• Experience in leading the preparation and review of statutory financial statements and reports, ensuring compliance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
• Proficient experience in leading and managing external audits.
• Considerable experience in conducting financial data analysis and balance sheet reviews to assess data accuracy and integrity.
• Experience in advising and supporting multidisciplinary teams to embed financial best practices and enhance professional accounting skills.

Desirable

• Knowledge of other global financial accounting standards, in particular Swiss GAAP.
• Experience in operating within the charity or non-profit sector, with an understanding of charity accounting and financial regulations.

Education and Qualifications 

Essential

• UK Accounting Qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).

Desirable

N/A