Senior Management Accountant

Senior Management Accountant

Salary up to £41,279 per annum + Relocation Package Available

37 hours per week Monday to Friday

30 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Shape financial strategy. Influence decision-making. Make a difference.

The Isle of Wight College is seeking an exceptional Senior Management Accountant to play a pivotal role in the financial leadership of our ambitious and forward-thinking College.

This is far more than a traditional management accounting role. Reporting directly to the Director of Finance and Resources, you will be a trusted business partner, providing strategic financial insight, challenge and support to managers, senior leaders and governors. You will lead on management accounts, budgeting, forecasting, statutory accounts, financial compliance and regulatory reporting, helping to ensure the College remains financially strong and well positioned for future growth.

As the College's senior finance professional below Director level, you will have the opportunity to influence key decisions, contribute to strategic projects and deputise for the Director of Finance when required.

At the Isle of Wight College we believe in investing in our staff.  

Your key duties ...................

You will be responsible for:

• Leading the preparation of monthly management accounts and financial reporting.
• Supporting budget holders with financial planning, forecasting and decision-making.
• Preparing statutory accounts and managing year-end processes.
• Developing financial forecasts, business cases and cash flow models.
• Managing key financial controls, reconciliations and compliance activities.
• Coordinating audit requirements and regulatory returns.
• Supporting the continuous improvement of financial systems, processes and reporting.
• Providing financial advice, challenge and guidance across the College.
• Opportunities to lead projects and develop strategic leadership skills.
• Exposure to governors, auditors, regulators and senior stakeholders.
• A commitment to wellbeing, work-life balance and professional growth.

Who we are looking for .....

This is a specialist professional role requiring substantial accounting experience and a recognised accountancy qualification.

To be considered, applicants must be able to demonstrate:

• Full CCAB qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA), or an equivalent recognised professional accountancy qualification.
• Significant experience in financial and management accounting.
• Experience preparing management accounts, statutory accounts, budgets and forecasts.
• Experience working with auditors and supporting year-end processes.
• Advanced Excel and financial modelling skills.
• Experience providing financial support and challenge to managers and budget holders.
• The ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information to non-finance audiences.

Applications from candidates who do not hold the essential professional accountancy qualification and significant relevant accounting experience are unlikely to meet the shortlisting criteria.

How to Apply .......

This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified accountant who wants to use their expertise in a role that combines technical excellence, strategic influence and meaningful contribution to education.

If you are looking for the next step in your career and want to be part of an organisation that values professional development, innovation and collaboration, we would love to hear from you.  Please send your CV and covering letter to [email protected] by the closing date 26th July 2026. 

Please note: Applicants must clearly demonstrate within their application how they meet the essential qualifications, experience and person specification criteria, as these will form the basis of the shortlisting process.

Why your Island Community chooses to work at the Isle of Wight College .............. 

Staff at the Isle of Wight College enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that enhances their work-life balance and wellbeing. Staff are entitled to Christmas Shutdown Holiday Allowance. The college offers an excellent pension scheme under the Local Government Scheme, providing long-term financial security.

 

For those keen on environmental sustainability and fitness, there’s a Cycle to Work Scheme. Employees also enjoy Wightlink discounts for travel, discounted treatments in the Hair and Beauty departments, and free access to the on-site gym.

 

Convenience is provided with free onsite parking, and the campus boasts an on-site Starbucks & Restaurant for all your refreshment needs.Health and wellbeing are taken seriously, with an Eye Care Scheme for Display Screen Equipment users, access to the Bluelight Card, Public Benefit Scheme (Kaarp), and additional Maternity/Adoption and Sickness Benefit Schemes.

 

The college also provides Free Counselling and Wellbeing Support, ensuring employees have access to mental health resources.  Professional growth is encouraged through CPD days, offering opportunities for mentorship and coaching, including staff development days. The college also promotes a healthy work environment with Well-being days & activities, ensuring that staff wellbeing is a priority.