Divisional Accountant

About us : We are one of the top three automotive retailers in the UK, proudly representing 32 manufacturer brands, selling a huge range of new and used vehicles from over 150 dealerships across the UK and Ireland. We believe our people are our greatest asset, and we’re committed to recognising the valuable contribution each person makes. That’s why we continue to invest in a leading rewards and benefits package designed to support your career, wellbeing, and life outside of work. Divisional Accountant – Charles Hurst Location: Belfast, Charles Hurst Head office Salary: £45,000 – £62,500 DOE + company car benefit and bonus opportunity Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm (1-hour lunch break) About the Role We are looking for a commercially focused Divisional Accountant to join our busy Charles Hurst Division, supporting a portfolio of dealerships across Northern Ireland. As Divisional Accountant, you will play a key role in driving financial performance, providing insightful analysis and ensuring robust financial controls across the division. Working closely with operational leaders and senior finance stakeholders, you will be responsible for the accurate production of management accounts, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting and performance analysis for your allocated dealerships. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced accountant who enjoys partnering with operational teams and influencing business performance within a fast-paced, multi-site environment. Key Responsibilities • Produce accurate and timely monthly management accounts for allocated dealerships. • Lead month-end and year-end financial close processes. • Analyse financial performance, identifying trends, risks and opportunities to improve profitability. • Prepare budgets, forecasts and financial plans, ensuring alignment with business objectives. • Conduct balance sheet reviews and maintain strong financial controls across the division. • Partner with dealership management teams, providing financial insight and challenge to support decision-making. • Monitor key performance indicators and provide meaningful commentary on business performance. • Ensure compliance with accounting standards, internal controls and company policies. • Support audits and statutory reporting requirements where necessary. • Lead and develop best practice across financial reporting and accounting processes. About You We're looking for a proactive and commercially aware finance professional with excellent analytical skills and the ability to build strong relationships across the business. Skills & Experience • Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) or Qualified by Experience. • Strong knowledge of management accounting, financial controls and reporting. • Proven experience within a commercial finance environment. • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and the ability to analyse and interpret complex financial data. • Previous motor retail experience and knowledge of dealer management systems would be advantageous. • Strong attention to detail with excellent organisational and time management skills. • Confident communicator with the ability to influence and challenge stakeholders at all levels. • Forward-thinking, proactive and solutions-focused approach. • Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment. Core Benefits: • Competitive salaries with structured pay scales and progression as you grow within the business • Generous annual leave that increases with your length of service • Enhanced family leave, including 6 months’ full pay for maternity and adoption leave, and 2 weeks’ full pay for paternity leave • Access to Techscheme for discounted technology purchase