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.