Job Description

Management Accountant

Application Deadline: 23 September 2026

Department: Central Finance

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Sandwell College

Compensation: £41,212 - £46,390 / year

Description

Are you a qualified or part-qualified accountant looking for an exciting opportunity to make a real impact within a dynamic Finance team? Sandwell College is seeking an experienced and proactive Management Accountant to join our Finance and Resources department on a permanent, full-time basis.

This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional with strong management accounting, budgeting and financial analysis experience to play a key role in supporting the College's financial performance. You will produce accurate and timely management accounts, provide budget holders with clear financial information and contribute to effective budget setting, forecasting and financial planning.

Working closely with the Assistant Director of Finance and senior finance team, you will help drive improvements to financial reporting and processes, ensuring that managers across the College have the information and support they need to make informed financial decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading month-end processes, including journals and balance sheet reconciliations
• Preparing the monthly management accounts pack, including budget vs actual analysis and insightful commentary
• Providing budget holders with clear, timely financial information and guidance to help them manage their budgets effectively
• Supporting annual budget setting, forecasting and financial analysis
• Leading the preparation of annual statutory financial statements and audit files
• Working closely with internal and external auditors during the year-end audit
• Identifying and implementing improvements to financial processes, controls and reporting
• Line managing the Finance Administrator, providing guidance, training and support
• Undertaking financial analysis and projects as required by the Director of Finance and Senior Leadership Team

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• A qualified or part-qualified accountancy qualification, such as ACA, CIMA, ACCA or CIPF
• Microsoft Excel intermediate e.g., European Computer Driving Licence or CLAIT L2
• Experience of accounting functions and accounts preparation, including year-end financial statements and external audit
• Experience of operational and strategic budget management, including budget setting, analysis and forecasting
• Experience of analysing complex financial data and communicating the results effectively
• Experience of working collaboratively as part of a finance team, with the ability to develop effective working relationships across an organisation
• Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail, particularly when preparing financial reports
• The ability to work effectively to tight deadlines and under pressure
• Experience with financial accounting systems such as Unit4/Business World, Oracle or Agresso would be advantageous

Benefits

✅ Top-Tier Salaries – We offer sector-leading pay with some of the most competitive salaries around

🏖 Unbeatable Time Off – Enjoy 35-50 days of annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays AND extra time off at Christmas – because work-life balance is essential

🚀 Fast-Track Your Career – Take advantage of dedicated development days, career pathways, and talent schemes designed to help you grow and succeed

🚴 Cycle to Work Scheme – A healthier, greener, and more cost-effective way to commute

💆‍♀️ Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services – Save on Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks, and more

🏋 Fitness Perks – Enjoy our college gym facilities or discounted rates at local gyms to keep you feeling your best

💰 Generous Pension Contributions – We invest in your future with 23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles and 21.5% for non-teaching roles

🛍 Retail & Travel Discounts – Unlock exclusive savings on high street brands, local transport, cross-country travel. UNIDAYS, Student Beans and Blue Light Discount

📜 Free Will Writing – We’ve got your back with professional support for your future planning

💉 Free Flu Vaccine – Stay healthy and protected at no cost to you

🧘 Wellbeing Support – Access confidential counselling services and wellness platforms to support your mental and emotional health

🏆 We Celebrate You! – We recognise and appreciate your hard work with awards, recognition events, and celebration days throughout the year.