Job Purpose    
At WHSmith our people are at the heart of everything we do. They are the ones that go the extra mile for our customers.  The ones that enable our growth.  That’s why our Finance team is passionate about creating an environment where people can do their best work.

The Head of Group Reporting role is right at the heart of the Finance team. We are looking for an experienced Group and Statutory Reporting specialist with a track record of delivering timely and accurate Group consolidations in complex, multi-currency environments.

What you’ll do

Lead and develop the Group Reporting team of c.4 qualified accountantsLead the preparation of the Group’s multi-currency IFRS consolidation process and monthly management reportingPlanning and execution of the interim and year end external reporting and audit, including interim/preliminary announcements and Annual Report, ensuring compliance with relevant accounting standards and disclosure requirements, and acting as the key point of contact with the external auditorsManage all technical aspects of the Group financial statements including dual reporting (IAS 17 / IFRS 16), impairment reviews, FX and provide technical expertise on complex accounting issues across the GroupSupport the production of Board and Audit Committee papersOversee the production of subsidiary statutory Accounts for all legal entitiesOversee the monthly accounting and reporting of Group holding companiesOwnership of Group accounting policies and procedures, and coordination of new accounting policies and standards implementation including IFRS 18Management of group legal entity structure, including capital structures and monitoring of distributable reservesInvolvement in development of  ESG/sustainability reporting capabilitiesInvolvement in ad hoc projects, to support the wider Group finance and business unit finance teams
Knowledge, skills and experience required

Candidates must be qualified ACA/ACCA with significant post-qualified experience, preferably within a listed Group functionTrack record of listed company reporting and multi-currency Group consolidation, with proven experience in leading a teamExperience of Oracle FCCS or HFM consolidation software an advantageExcellent attention to detail, and ability to prioritise effectively and efficiently under tight deadlinesStrong aptitude for finance systems and very comfortable on Excel, able to manipulate and report complex financial data into a reportable formatStrong knowledge of IFRS, UK statutory accounts and relevant disclosure requirements, including understanding of IFRS 16Confident engaging communicator, who is able to build relationships and present financial information clearly, confidently and conciselyEnthusiastic self-starter

Benefits    

Competitive salaryAnnual bonus based on company and personal performanceHybrid working model from home and in the office25 Days holiday, plus your Birthday off, plus Bank Holidays with an opportunity to buy extra days holidayFinish at 4pm on a FridayStaff discount card for stores and online

Who we are    
Celebrating 230 years, we’re proud to have grown and evolved into a globally recognised brand present in over 30 countries around the world, and we’re proud to be that air of familiarity people love and trust on their journey, both in life and through life. As a diverse group of over 11,000 colleagues, we are all on the same journey to a better business through our commitments to our planet, people and the communities we serve.

For UK Travel our mission is simple - to create value for our stakeholders by providing a platform for global brands responsible for essentials and technology in airports (including our InMotion stores), hospitals, rail stations and other markets. Our office is based in a buzzing part of central London close to Liverpool Street Station. We are an ambitious team that thrives on pace, collaboration and innovation resulting in a real entrepreneurial culture at all levels. It’s perfect for people who are happy to use their initiative and embrace life outside their comfort zone.