Interim Head of Financial Accounts

�� London-based | Fixed Term – 18 months | Full Time

An internationally renowned research institute, dedicated to making the discoveries that defeat cancer, is seeking an Interim Head of Financial Accounts to play a pivotal leadership role in its Finance Department during a transformational period.

This organisation has been at the forefront of global cancer research for over a century and is ranked among the top centres for cancer research and treatment worldwide. It combines cutting-edge science with a deep, people-first culture—where excellence, collaboration, and integrity are not just values, but lived every day.

This role offers a unique opportunity for a finance professional to contribute directly to a cause that changes lives. It’s a chance to be part of something bigger—supporting the financial heartbeat of a world-class institution that blends research, academia, and operational impact.

�� The Opportunity

The Interim Head of Financial Accounts will lead a dedicated team within Financial Operations and Control, ensuring the organisation’s financial activities run efficiently, compliantly, and strategically. The successful candidate will guide treasury management, statutory reporting, tax compliance, and payroll, while also playing a key role in the rollout of a brand-new ERP system.

This is a hands-on, leadership role that combines strategic oversight with operational delivery, offering the rare balance of autonomy and collaboration.

�� Key Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and inspire the Financial Accounts Team.
• Oversee treasury operations, investment reporting, and cashflow forecasting.
• Ensure timely, accurate processing of all accounts payable/receivable activities.
• Manage payroll operations in partnership with HR.
• Maintain VAT and Corporation Tax compliance, acting as the key liaison with HMRC and external advisors.
• Drive forward audit preparation and the delivery of statutory accounts.
• Support finance process transformation during the implementation of a new ERP system.

�� About You

You're a qualified accountant (CCAB) with substantial experience across all areas of financial operations, ideally in the charity, not-for-profit, or higher education sectors. You're a natural leader with an analytical mindset and the ability to communicate financial matters clearly to non-finance stakeholders. Your attention to detail is second to none, and you thrive in a values-driven organisation that is truly mission-led.

Essential experience includes:

• Treasury and cashflow management
• Tax reporting (VAT and Corporation Tax)
• Payroll oversight
• Month-end and year-end financial close processes
• Statutory accounts preparation and audit liaison

Experience with Agresso or Oracle Cloud Financials would be a welcome bonus.

�� What’s On Offer

This is more than just a finance role. It’s a career-defining opportunity to be part of something meaningful. You’ll work alongside some of the brightest minds in research and innovation, within a culture that genuinely cares about its people.

Benefits include:

• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) or continuation of NHS Pension Scheme
• Family-friendly policies and flexible working options
• Interest-free loans for travel and cycle schemes
• Access to on-site gym and restaurants
• Mental health and wellbeing support

To find out more apply below or contact Rosemary Pini from Allen Lane.