6-month contract to start in May 2026

Interim Group Financial Accountant 6-month contract
Start: May UK Charity
We are recruiting an experienced Interim Group Financial Accountant to join a well-established, highly regarded UK charity on an initial 6-month contract, starting as soon as May. This is a hands-on technical accounting role requiring strong charity sector experience, particularly across VAT, partial exemption, statutory accounts and audit preparation. The role will play a key part in the post-year-end close, with focus shifting to the July audit and associated preparation during Q2.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and support post-year-end accounting activities - Prepare and review statutory accounts in line with Charities SORP and FRS - Take ownership of VAT compliance, including:- Preparation and review of VAT returns - Understanding VAT liability of income and activities - Attribution and apportionment of VAT costs - Business / non-business and partial exemption calculations - Capital Goods Scheme considerations - Support audit planning and delivery for the July audit, including liaison with auditors - Maintain and review general and nominal ledgers (Oracle Netsuite preferred) - Review and enhance chart of accounts / coding structures - Oversee fixed asset register integrity and compliance - Ensure compliance across VAT, PAYE, corporation tax, Gift Aid claims - Work effectively with internal stakeholders and national charitable and regulatory bodies

Essential Requirements- Fully qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / FCA / FCCA) - Proven charity sector experience - applicants without this cannot be considered - Strong technical expertise in:- Charity VAT & partial exemption - Statutory accounts preparation - Charities SORP & relevant FRS - Significant experience preparing VAT returns within a charity environment - Solid understanding of:- General & nominal ledgers (Oracle Netsuite desirable) - Fixed asset registers - Financial systems, reporting standards and data analysis tools - Confident operating in a hands-on interim role, able to add value quickly The Ideal Candidate- Immediately or quickly available - Comfortable working in a complex, regulated charity environment - Detail-driven with strong technical judgement - Pragmatic, collaborative and delivery-focused This is an excellent opportunity to support a respected UK charity at a critical point in its financial calendar while making a meaningful impact in a short-term assignment.