Head of Accounting

Job Details

Job Title: Head of  Accounting

Location: London, (Hybrid)

Contract: Permanent

About Verian

Verian is a purpose-led company, delivering high-impact projects that shape public policy and drive social change. From education to health, crime to energy, our projects make a real difference. With offices in 15 countries, our consultants and researchers advise government departments, regulators, charities, and other public sector organisations to make informed decisions and improve people’s lives. Operating globally, Verian has offices across Europe, Asia Pacific, and the United States.

About the Team

The Verian Group Finance HQ team is a central, high performing, and collaborative function that plays a critical role in supporting the Group’s strategic and operational objectives. Based at the heart of the organisation, the team brings together deep technical expertise, strong business partnering capability, and a shared commitment to high standards of financial governance and insight.

About the Role

The Head of Cost Centre Accounting is responsible for ensuring that all organisational costs are accurately captured, allocated, analysed, and reported at the cost‑centre level. This role acts as the financial “owner” of cost visibility, supporting strategic decision‑making, budgeting, performance management, and cost optimisation across the business.

What You'll Do

• Provide accurate, timely and insight‑driven cost reporting across all cost centres
• Ensure financial control and governance over cost structures
• Partner with departmental heads to explain variances, challenge assumptions, and drive cost discipline
• Translate cost data into strategic recommendations for senior leadership

Cost Accounting & Reporting

• Oversee cost allocation methodologies and ensure they are applied consistently
• Produce monthly cost‑centre performance reports, variance analysis, and insight
• Maintain the chart of accounts related to cost centres

Budgeting, Forecasting & Planning

• Lead the cost‑centre portion of the annual budget cycle
• Coordinate rolling forecasts and scenario planning
• Check and apply the necessary rigour to budget assumptions

Financial Governance & Controls

• Ensure compliance with internal accounting policies
• Oversee periodic cost‑centre reconciliations and cost allocations
• Strengthen processes to increase efficiency and reduce manual adjustments

What You'll Bring

• Strong cost centre & technical accounting knowledge with a management accounting focus
• Excellent analytical and data‑interpretation skills with the ability to translate complex cost data into actionable insights
• Strong understanding of cost drivers
• Experience with SAP or S4H
• Exceptional cost transparency and insight
• Rigorous financial control and high reporting standards
• Detailed budgeting, forecasting and cost planning skills
• Strong business partnering and influential communication

A Bonus If

• You can drive transformation and offer commercial insights

Why Verian?

• Impactful role with opportunities for growth
• Supportive & collaborative environment
• Hybrid & flexible working

How To Apply

Ready to make an impact? We’d welcome your application!

Apply online today, and if your profile matches, we’ll be in touch for an initial exploratory interview.

We encourage applications from all sections of society and provide reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities throughout the application and interview process.

Learn more about us at veriangroup.com