Job Description

Company Overview

Watsons is a firm of Chartered Surveyors who offer a multi-disciplinary practice, incorporating both Residential and Commercial work. Watsons is regulated by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

This is an interesting and dynamic role. You could be working on processes, preparing management information, and attending meetings about strategy all in the same day.

Summary

You will need to provide financial strategic and operational advice to the business to enable senior officer and Heads of Department to make decisions that support the financial position of the business. Being part of a focused team, you must also be prepared to roll your sleeves up and get the job done. The team are currently working with Sage software.

Whilst there are a number of different areas of responsibility, the primary ones are the successful running of the business finance function and all financial processes, controls and procedures; the production of timely and accurate management information - presenting this to key stakeholders; and supporting department heads in decision making with input to the strategic decision making of the business.

By spending time understanding the business, talking to department heads you will be expected to add value to the creation of financial plans

Initially you will need to spend a large proportion of your time streamlining, improving, and automating financial processes. However, as you grow into the role, the expectation is that you will be much more focused on value added activities and initiatives.

Watsons has a proven track record of providing the very best client care and the testament to this is the fact that a large percentage of our clients have been with us over many years. Every member of the team is encouraged to 'go the extra mile', by delivering more, adding value, and exceeding the expectations of our clients.

Key Responsibilities

Year-End Accounts and Audit Oversight:

Lead the preparation, review, and audit process for year-end accounts to ensure accuracy and compliance, coordinating with external accountants to produce reliable financial statements. Work alongside external accountings supporting company and client accounts.

Policy, Procedures and Financial Controls:

Regularly review and update financial policies, procedures, and controls.

Process Improvement:

Continuously be on the lookout for improvements to processes and introducing automation to minimise manual effort and reduce the risk of errors

Budgeting and Financial Planning:

Develop, monitor, and enforce departmental budgets, providing analytical reports and insights to support senior management's strategic decisions. Guide the finance team and departmental heads through the budgeting process to ensure realistic and achievable financial forecasts. Produce integrated financial reports that support the business in its decision making about the future. To include profit and loss, balance sheet and cash flow

Monthly Management Accounts:

Prepare monthly management accounts, including variance analysis, to present to senior management, offering insights into financial performance and making recommendations for improvements. Chair a monthly Financial Steering Group in communicating the financial narrative to key stakeholders.

Team Leadership and Development:

Lead and mentor finance professionals, fostering a positive work environment that encourages growth, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Provide training and development opportunities to enhance team capabilities.

Collaboration with Stakeholders:

Engage with Watsons' clients, customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to manage payment processes efficiently, enhance financial communications, and support credit control activities to minimise outstanding debts. Watsons work closely with Larking & Gowan as their accountants.

Firm-Wide Budgetary and Accounting Support:

Participate actively in firm-wide budgetary planning and company accounting, implementing effective performance measures that drive productivity and align with organisational goals.

Regulatory Compliance:

Ensure all financial practices comply with statutory regulations and internal policies, conducting regular reviews and updates to policies and procedures to maintain compliance and mitigate risks.

Market and Financial Analysis:

Analyse markets and company data to aid in the development of strategic plan and provide investment advice to support business growth and resilience.

Cash Flow and Transaction Monitoring:

Oversee cashflow management, monitoring financial transactions, and creating systems for effective purchase workflows and cost control, ensuring the firm's liquidity and operational efficiency.

Daily Financial Operations Support:

Assist Watsons employees in facilitating daily financial operations, tracking financial data accurately, and ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering practices.

Risk Management and Profit Maximisation:

Identify and implement methods to minimise financial risks and enhance profit streams, leveraging financial insights and market data to help drive strategic decision-making.

Supplier and Contractor Relationship Management:

Build and maintain strong relationships with service providers and contractors, developing robust procurement processes to ensure cost-effective and quality services.

Requirements

The ideal candidate will possess ACCA, AAT, or CIMA qualifications and demonstrate proficiency in accounting software such as Sage or Xero, as well as Office 365 and Teams. Successful experience in managing teams, including collaborating with and supporting business leaders, is a key requirement for this role. Candidates should be comfortable communicating across all levels of the organisation and exhibit strong attention to detail and accuracy in their work. Experience in the property industry is advantageous. We are seeking an individual who can maintain composure under pressure, contribute innovative ideas, has a proven background in a senior finance role, and is eager to work closely with the senior management team to become fully integrated into the business.
If you are ready to take your career to new heights and make a significant impact in the property sector, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Additional leave Bereavement leave Company events Company pension Employee mentoring programme Free flu jabs Free parking Health & wellbeing programme Life insurance On-site parking Paid volunteer time Private dental insurance Private medical insurance Referral programme Sick pay Work from home
Application question(s):

Do you have at least 5 years experience in a senior management accounting role? Are you comfortable effectively communicating in English both in writing and speaking? Are you authorised to work in the United Kingdon? Are you located within daily travelling distance of Norwich, Norfolk?
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Norwich NR7 0TA