Project Accountant- Defence Sector

🌐 Project Accountant – Defence Sector
📍 Location: Chatham, Kent + Hybrid Working
💼 Salary: £55,000 + Excellent Benefits
📄 Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent
🔐 Sector: Defence / Major Infrastructure Projects

Join a globally recognised organisation at the forefront of the UK defence sector, employing over 26,000 professionals worldwide. This is a unique opportunity to support a high-profile, long-term infrastructure programme that plays a vital role in national defence and security.

🚀 The Opportunity
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Project Accountant to take a leading role in managing the financial performance of a landmark Private Public Partnership (PPP), initially awarded as a subcontract exceeding £2bn in value.

Working closely with the Head of Finance and Head of Programmes, you will be instrumental in driving financial strategy, enhancing reporting accuracy, and mitigating financial risks across the project lifecycle.

🔧 Key Responsibilities:
Prepare and analyse accurate monthly management accounts, forecasts, budgets, and long-term financial plans.

Identify and implement opportunities to optimise cash flow, enhance financial performance, and improve service delivery.

Support senior stakeholders and clients by delivering high-quality, insightful financial data and reporting.

Develop robust financial models, validate data, and track key financial and operational performance indicators.

Lead on timely billing, revenue recognition, and support pricing activities through strong financial governance.

This role is based on a 37-hour working week, with a hybrid setup from Chatham and occasional travel to Minley (Hampshire) and Portsmouth.

👤 About You:
Proven experience in a similar project-focused accounting role with full responsibility for contract accounts.

Strong background in financial forecasting, planning, and performance reporting.

Excellent stakeholder engagement skills across technical and non-financial teams.

Sound knowledge of reconciling operational and financial data across integrated systems.

Experience in long-term contract accounting, preferably within construction, infrastructure, or defence sectors.

Advanced Excel and financial modelling capabilities are essential.

🎓 Qualifications:
Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).

Significant post-qualification experience in a project or commercial finance role.

If you’re looking to make an impact in a high-profile, mission-critical environment, this is the role for you. Apply now to join a collaborative and forward-thinking team shaping the future of UK defence infrastructure.

This position is subject to an enhanced security clearance.

For more information, please contact Simon Atkins on 07894 752230