Head of Financial Reporting

About Our Client

TGJones is the new identity for WHSmith's high street retail business, following its recent acquisition from a leading private equity investor. With a rich heritage as one of the UK's most recognisable retail brands, the business is embarking on an exciting new chapter-backed by investment, a focused growth strategy, and a commitment to revitalising the high street offering. TGJones combines the stability of an established brand with the energy of a transformation-led environment, providing an ideal platform for commercially minded professionals to make a significant impact.

Job Description

As Head of Financial Reporting, you will own all aspects of group financial reporting and play a key role in delivering accurate, timely, and compliant financial information. You will act as a senior contact for external stakeholders such as auditors, tax advisors, and banking partners, while collaborating closely with the CFO, CEO, and other senior leaders internally.

Your core responsibilities will include:

1. Group Consolidation & Statutory Reporting: Lead the preparation of consolidated financial statements for TGJones and its subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with IFRS and UK statutory requirements. Oversee the year-end process and manage all technical aspects of group consolidation, including dual reporting under IFRS 16 and IAS 17.
2. External Audit Management: Manage the full audit process across the group, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of audited accounts and addressing auditor queries effectively.
3. Technical Accounting Leadership: Provide guidance on technical accounting issues, maintain and update the group's accounting policy manual, and implement new standards as needed.
4. Board & Senior Stakeholder Reporting: Prepare reports, financial summaries, and risk analyses to inform strategic decision-making at the highest level.
5. Cash Flow & Treasury Oversight: Oversee daily cash flow reporting, support lender relationships, and ensure compliance with debt covenants.
6. Tax Oversight (Light Touch): Liaise with external tax advisors on compliance and planning, including corporation tax, VAT, and PAYE.
7. Banking Relationships: Support the CFO in managing banking relationships, treasury policies, and risk mitigation.
8. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with departments to ensure financial reporting supports operational and strategic needs.

The Successful Applicant

We seek a confident, technically proficient finance professional who thrives in a dynamic environment. You should be a qualified accountant with experience in external reporting and group consolidation, capable of operating credibly at a senior level.

You will bring:

1. Professional Qualifications & Experience: ACA or ACCA qualified, with 5+ years post-qualification experience in financial reporting or a related technical role. Big 4 or audit experience is desirable.
2. Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of IFRS, UK GAAP, and experience with consolidated financial statements. Familiarity with IFRS 16 and cash flow reporting is advantageous.
3. Leadership & Ownership: Proven ability to lead complex reporting processes, manage audits, and prioritize effectively.
4. Communication & Stakeholder Management: Confident communicator capable of building relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders.
5. Commercial Awareness: Understanding of business performance and ability to support board-level reporting.
6. Collaborative Approach: Team player who supports and guides others, fostering a positive team culture.
7. Industry Experience (Desirable): Experience in retail, FMCG, or multi-entity businesses, or exposure to private equity environments.
8. Adaptability & Drive: Energetic, resilient, and problem-solving mindset to contribute to a transformative business.

What's on Offer

This is a unique opportunity to join a renowned retail brand at a pivotal moment. You will be part of a senior finance team influencing the company's future, with strong leadership support and visibility at the board level.

The successful candidate will benefit from:

1. Competitive Salary: A highly competitive base salary reflecting the role's seniority and impact.
2. Performance-Linked Bonus: A generous bonus scheme tied to personal and company performance.
3. Car Allowance: Additional allowance to complement your package.
4. Hybrid Working: Flexible model with three days per week in the Swindon office.
5. Annual Leave & Lifestyle Perks: 25 days' leave plus your birthday off, with holiday trading options.
6. Pension & Benefits: Company pension scheme and various benefits supporting wellbeing.
7. Career Development: Opportunities to grow within a high-growth, change-driven environment.
8. Inclusive Culture: Supportive, diverse workplace valuing individuality and inclusion.