Project Accountant – Process Implementation (AP/AR)

Job description

Job Title: Project Accountant – Process Implementation (AP/AR)

Location: High Wycombe (5 days on-site)

Duration: 3–6 months (Contract)

Day Rate: Up to £550 per day (Outside IR35)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Project Accountant to join a fast-paced finance team on a 3–6 month contract. The primary focus of this role is to tackle a significant accounting backlog and establish robust AP, AR, and accounting procedures to transition the finance function into a stable Business-As-Usual (BAU) state.

This is a hands-on role requiring strong technical skills, excellent process awareness, and the ability to drive through operational improvements while managing day-to-day deliverables.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of a large volume of outstanding transactional accounting (AP, AR, GL).

• Clean up and reconcile historical data, resolving discrepancies and ensuring audit readiness.

• Design, implement, and document standard operating procedures (SOPs) for AP, AR, and month-end processes.

• Support the finance team in stabilizing key processes to transition into a steady-state BAU environment.

• Collaborate with operational and finance stakeholders to identify bottlenecks and process inefficiencies.

• Work with external advisors or auditors to ensure controls and compliance frameworks are met.

• Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting during the transition period.

• Provide knowledge transfer and support training to permanent staff where needed.

Requirements

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).

• Strong track record in delivering short-term finance transformation or clean-up projects.

• Deep understanding of AP, AR and core financial operations in a commercial environment.

• Demonstrated experience implementing or enhancing finance processes.

• Hands-on and detail-oriented, with excellent Excel and reconciliation skills.

• Ability to work under pressure and deliver results within tight deadlines.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to manage stakeholders and support team members.

• Prior experience in high-volume, transactional environments is highly advantageous.

Contract Details

• Location: 5 days per week onsite in High Wycombe

• Contract Term: 3 to 6 months

• Day Rate: Up to £550/day (Outside IR35)

• Start Date: ASAP / Immediate availability preferred