Lead Accountant Full Time NEW

Do you thrive on turning numbers into clear, actionable insight that drives business performance?

Can you bring structure, accuracy, and pace to financial reporting, while partnering with teams across the business to support decision-making?

Who we are

At Universal Wolf, we are experts in complex metal fabrication. We build long-term partnerships with demanding customers who share our ambition to take on the toughest challenges.

Purpose of position

We are looking for a proactive and detail-focused Lead Accountant to take ownership of our reporting cycle and provide high-quality financial insight to support operational and strategic goals.

In this role, you will play a key part in ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of management information, while supporting both the Operations team and Group Finance Function with analysis, reporting, and project work.

As Lead Accountant, you will be central to maintaining strong financial control, improving processes, and ensuring the business has the information it needs to perform at its best.

What You’ll Do:

• Take ownership of the month-end accounts production and reporting cycle
• Prepare and post monthly journals, including prepayments and accruals
• Produce accurate and timely management accounts in line with reporting deadlines
• Complete monthly balance sheet reconciliations
• Deliver monthly flash reports and weekly KPIs with a strong focus on accuracy
• Oversee accounts payable, including review and sign-off of payment runs
• Manage accounts receivable, identifying and mitigating any risk areas
• Prepare quarterly VAT returns and support audit deliverables, working with external advisors
• Play an active role in preparing the payroll and sending to the 3rd party provider
• Work with systems including IFS ERP and MRP tools for costing and reporting

We’d love you to have:

• A recognised accounting qualification (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) or be working towards one
• Experience in a relevant industry environment
• Strong Excel skills and confidence working with financial systems (IFS experience is a plus)
• A highly organised and structured approach to work
• Excellent attention to detail
• The ability to meet tight reporting deadlines
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively with a range of stakeholders

Great benefits:

• Financial Wellbeing: Pension Exchange, Savings Scheme, Introduce a Colleague (get up to £1000!), discretionary Colleague Bonus-
• Health & Wellbeing: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Mental Health First
• Aiders (MHFA), Discounted gym membership, Bike to Work scheme-
• Work life balance: 25 days holiday per year plus bank holidays (pro rata), Annual-
• Leave Purchasing Scheme, plus your birthday off

If you’re looking for a role where you can combine technical expertise with real business impact, this could be the opportunity for you.