Cognita is a world leading schools group with 43 independent schools in the UK and
a further 21 schools across the globe, each with its own unique identity and all
sharing an ethos of excellence.
We are seeking a Head Office Accountant for our Group Finance Team which will be
based at our Head Office in Milton Keynes. This is a brand new full-time role,
reporting to the Assistant Group Financial Accountant in a rapidly growing, education
business. The salary is £30,000 per annum to commence in January 2014 or sooner
(if possible).
As a key member of the Group Finance Team some of the position holder’s key
responsibilities will be:
Month-end routines

Preparation of month end packs for international schools.

Processing of monthly information provided by the international schools and
regions into the group reporting system and liaison with the regions on all
processing matters.

Update holding company accounting schedules on a monthly basis and
prepare and post standard monthly holding company journals.

Intercompany invoicing and reconciliation of holding company ICO balances
with those of regional holding companies and the posting of appropriate FX
adjustments.

Assist the Group Management Accountant with month-end reporting and
reviewing information provided by the Regional Finance Teams including
month-end performance (actual v budget v forecast), capex and statistical
information.
Year-end routines

Rolling forwards the consolidation and associated reporting packs

Updating the reporting pack structures

Assist in building year-end schedules for Head Office financial statements.

Produce the dormant UK holding company audit packs.

Produce the UK holding company statutory financial statements for dormant
entities.

Assist with the year-end group statutory reporting.
Administration

Manage all company secretarial changes in liaison with the group’s external
Company Secretarial provider.

Arrange notarisation of group documents as and when necessary.

Work on building a Group Finance repository of information including financial
statements, tax returns/filings etc.

Assist with ongoing and new projects within the group finance team, whether
financial reporting, management reporting, planning or system development
in its nature.

Provide administrative support to the entire group finance team.

Setting up international payments on online banking system.
The ideal candidate will be a part qualified or AAT qualified accountant, with previous
experience in a financial accounting role. They will be a self starter with a strong academic
background and have the ability to work independently in a fast paced and dynamic
environment. They must have good interpersonal and communication skills. Group accounts
experience is desirable but not essential.
How to apply:
If you feel you can meet the challenges of this role, please complete an application form and
return along with your CV and covering letter to Annemarie.kinsella@cognitaschools.co.uk
The application form can be downloaded from the Cognita Website at
www.cognitaschools.com
Closing date: Noon on 13th November 2013
First interviews: 15th & 18th November 2013
Second interviews: 22nd November 2013
Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and
young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Safer
recruitment practice and pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment
is confirmed. Appointment is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
check for regulated activity.