Watlow is a global technology and manufacturing leader who provides world class engineering expertise through innovative thermal products and systems, enabling our customers to thrive. We are making a positive impact every day as our solutions enrich the lives of people everywhere. We have been providing breakthrough thermal solutions for over 100 years. Our corporate values guide us uncompromisingly to always do the right thing, continually learn and improve, respect everyone, and lead with service and humility.
We are hiring a: Senior Accounting Manager
(Worthing) onsite
About The Role
We are seeking a Senior Accounting Manager to take ownership of our UK accounting operations while playing a key role in shaping and standardizing accounting practices across Europe. This is a high‑impact, senior‑level position with a clear progression path. Initially focused on leading a complex UK accounting landscape, the role will evolve into a broader European leadership position, driving consistency, policy alignment, and best practices across multiple jurisdictions. You will operate at the intersection of local statutory requirements and global corporate policy, acting as a key partner to European finance teams.
What You’ll Do
- Provide oversight of end‑to‑end finance operations (AP, AR, Payroll, Credit Control)
- Lead and progressively expand ownership of the technical accounting close process across Europe, driving best practices
- Oversee tax compliance (UK & Ireland) in coordination with external advisors
- Lead monthly close and statutory reporting processes for the UK
- Ensure full compliance with UK GAAP and UK tax regulations
- Oversee multi‑entity consolidation and complex accounting structures
- Manage external audits and relationships with auditors and advisors
- Review and adapt corporate accounting policies for European applicability
- Provide oversight and guidance to regional finance teams
- Drive standardisation, process improvement, and automation across finance functions
- Partner with FP&A, Treasury, and operational teams on key financial matters
- Contribute to finance transformation initiatives and strategic projects
What You’ll Need To Succeed
- Degree qualified in Finance, Accounting or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
- Qualified Accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA or equivalent)
- Proven experience in financial accounting and reporting within an international environment
- Experience managing statutory reporting, audits, and compliance in complex environments
- Ability to work cross‑functionally and influence stakeholders across regions
- Strong analytical capability and ability to interpret and challenge financial data
- Proficiency in Excel and experience working with ERP systems
- Fluent in English
Nice to Have
- Experience in multi‑entity or international organisations
- Exposure to European accounting environments
- Background in manufacturing, industrial, or similarly complex sectors
- Experience working in matrix organisations
Why Join Watlow’s Team
- Regional impact & visibility – play a key role in shaping financial governance and consistency across Europe
- Transformation journey – contribute to ongoing finance modernisation, process improvement, and automation initiatives
- Collaborative international environment – work across the UK, Europe, and Shared Services, gaining broad exposure and career development opportunities
Diversity & Inclusion
We proactively embrace diversity in all its dimensions across our company and cultivate a culture of inclusion and forward thinking that respects and reflects each team member’s individual strengths, views, and experiences. Watlow takes pride in being an inclusive equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
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