Senior Financial Accountant - Challenger Bank

Senior Financial Accountant Location: London (Full-time) Sector: Banking & Financial Services The Opportunity A fast-growing, fully licensed UK Challenger Bank is looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Senior Financial Accountant to join its expanding London finance team. Having recently transitioned from a build-out phase to scaling operations, the bank is focused on disciplined expansion and operational efficiency. As a key partner to the Finance Director and Financial Controller, you won't just be managing the numbers; you will be a driver of operational excellence and a champion of modern, tech-forward Finance practices. Key Responsibilities Financial Controllership: Partner with the Financial Controller to drive standards, discipline, and continuous improvement across technical accounting and reporting. Reporting & Close: Lead the majority of month-end and year-end close activities, ensuring compliance with IFRS and regulatory requirements. Audit & Compliance: Support external and internal audit processes by delivering high-quality documentation and well-evidenced responses. Technical Models: Execute and maintain complex financial reporting models, including IFRS 9 and IFRS 16, within a robust model risk management framework. Process Optimisation: Identify and implement automation opportunities and internal control enhancements to strengthen governance as the business scales. Operations & Tax: Oversee day-to-day activities such as AP/AR and cash settlements, while partnering with external advisors on VAT and corporation tax compliance. Leadership: Coach junior team members and foster a culture of accountability and integrity. Requirements Qualifications: ACA, ACCA, ICAS, CPA, or CIMA qualified. Accounting Expertise: Strong core knowledge of IFRS and practical experience in delivering month-end close and balance sheet reconciliations. Data & Systems: Advanced Excel skills and high data literacy. Experience with advanced ledgers (such as Microsoft Dynamics/Business Central) is preferred. Modern Tools: A practical mindset toward technology, including comfort leveraging AI solutions (e.g., ChatGPT/Copilot) and prompt-writing skills to improve efficiency. Attributes: Exceptional attention to detail, the ability to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment, and strong cross-functional communication skills. Bonus Skills: Exposure to SQL, Python, or coding tools is considered an advantage.