Cost Accountant jobs in United Kingdom

UK

Permanent contract

ProductLife Group is seeking a motivated and skilled Accountant to join our Finance team. This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of core accounting responsibilities while also gaining exposure to financial controlling activities, making it ideal for someone looking to develop into a broader finance leadership position.

We are particularly keen to hear from candidates with experience in consulting or professional services environments, where strong financial discipline, reporting accuracy, and adaptability are key.

Responsibilities:

General Accounting & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate financial records and ensure timely posting of transactions.
• Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and variance analyses.
• Manage the general ledger, accruals, and prepayments to ensure accurate period-end reporting.
• Perform intercompany reconciliations and resolve discrepancies across group entities.
• Support the preparation of statutory accounts in line with IFRS/GAAP requirements.
• Prepare and submit tax returns (VAT and other local taxes) and assist with regulatory compliance.
• Monitor costs, productivity, margins, and expenditures across business units.
• Perform financial analyses, providing insights to support decision-making.
• Contribute to budgeting and forecasting processes and monitor actuals against plans.
• Assist with cash flow monitoring and working capital management.
• Oversee timesheet management processes to ensure accurate revenue recognition and cost allocation.
• Partner with business stakeholders to provide financial support and insight.
• Support the development and improvement of internal controls and financial processes.

Audit & Compliance:

• Assist in the preparation for internal and external audits.
• Document, test, and strengthen internal controls to ensure audit readiness.
• Ensure the adequacy of systems and structures for reliable financial reporting.
• Coordinate accounting projects with other finance team members and departments.
• Provide guidance, training, and mentoring to junior team members.
• Contribute to the implementation of ERP systems and process automation initiatives.

Candidate Profile:

• Experience: 3–5 years’ accounting experience, ideally gained in consulting, or professional services firms with exposure to timesheet-driven businesses.

Education/Qualifications:

• Part-qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA, or equivalent) required; fully qualified preferred.

Skills:

• Strong technical accounting knowledge with good understanding of IFRS/GAAP.
• Experience with intercompany reconciliations and multi-entity accounting.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in accounting software/ERP systems and advanced Excel skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

What We Offer

• A challenging and rewarding role with exposure to both accounting and controlling activities.
• The opportunity to work in a growing, international business with diverse operations.