Management Accountant - 12 month FTC

About WPP Media 

WPP is the creative transformation company. We use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, planet, clients and communities. For more information, visit wpp.com. 

WPP Media is WPP’s global media collective. In a world where media is everywhere and in everything, we bring the best platform, people, and partners together to create limitless opportunities for growth. For more information, visit wppmedia.com 

Role Summary and Impact 

We are seeking a professional accountant to join our finance team for a maternity cover contract for a 4 day working week. This role offers a significant opportunity to leverage your skills and contribute to a fast-paced, global organization during a critical period. This is a maternity cover, fixed-term contract position, reporting to the Senior Finance team. 

Key Responsibilities: Contributing to Financial Excellence 

• As a Management Accountant, you will play a crucial role in the Senior finance team, gaining valuable exposure across various financial operations. You will be instrumental in maintaining financial accuracy, collaborating with internal departments like client services and operations, and engaging with external auditors. Your main duties and responsibilities will include: 

Financial Reporting & Analysis: 

• Assist in the preparation of accurate and timely monthly financial reports, ensuring adherence to strict deadlines. 

• Support month-end and year-end close processes, including preparing journal entries, accruals, and prepayments. 

• Perform balance sheet reconciliations and investigate variances to ensure data integrity. 

• Contribute to the analysis of financial data to identify trends and provide insights. 

Compliance & Audit Support: 

• Liaise with internal and external auditors, providing necessary documentation and explanations. 

• Assist in the preparation and submission of various tax returns (e.g., VAT, payroll taxes) and other statutory filings. 

• Ensure all financial processes and records comply with Group Policies and relevant accounting standards. 

General Ledger & Transactional Accuracy: 

• Maintain the general ledger, ensuring all transactions are accurately recorded and classified. 

• Support the meticulous preparation and processing of monthly payroll, ensuring accuracy and timely payments. 

• Review and verify financial transactions, ensuring proper authorization and documentation. 

Process Improvement & Ad Hoc Projects: 

• Identify opportunities to improve financial systems and processes for greater efficiency and control. 

• Participate in ad hoc finance projects as required, contributing to the team's broader objectives. 

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Skills and Experience 

We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented fully qualified accountant with a strong foundation in finance and a commitment to professional excellence. 

Core Competencies: 

• Accounting Qualification: Fully qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CPA, or equivalent). 

• Relevant Experience: Significant practical experience in a finance or accounting role, ideally within a fast-paced environment with tight reporting deadlines. Experience within the media industry is a plus. 

• Financial Acumen: A solid understanding of core accounting principles (IFRS/GAAP) and financial reporting. 

• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse financial data, identify discrepancies, and contribute to problem-solving. 

• Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to data entry, reconciliations, and report preparation, ensuring accuracy. 

• Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication, both written and verbal, for effective interaction with colleagues and external partners.