Project Accountant
| Posting date: | 20 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £55,000.0 to £70,000.0 per year |
| Additional salary information: | Up to £70,000 |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 27 February 2026 |
| Location: | Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX5 1ST |
| Remote working: | Hybrid - work remotely up to 3 days per week |
| Company: | Hays Specialist Recruitment |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 4773111_1771609801 |
Summary
A fast‑growing organisation in the renewable energy sector is embarking on a significant programme of large‑scale construction projects across multiple UK locations. To support this expansion, we're looking for a Project Accountant who can bring structure, clarity and commercial discipline to complex capital delivery.This role sits at the heart of project performance - ensuring financial accuracy, strong cost control and clear visibility of risks and opportunities throughout the build cycle. It's an ideal opportunity for someone who thrives in a hands‑on environment and enjoys partnering closely with project and commercial teams.
The Role
You'll be the financial lead across several major construction projects, acting as the link between on‑site delivery teams, commercial functions and senior leadership. Your focus will be on building reliable financial frameworks, keeping forecasts tight, challenging cost movements and ensuring the business has a clear view of project health at all times.
Location: Enstone (2 Days PW Onsite)
Salary: Upto £70,000
Key Areas of Responsibility:Financial Control & Reporting
- Build and maintain financial structures that mirror project delivery plans
- Ensure costs are captured accurately across work packages and project phases
- Track spend against budget and provide meaningful variance analysis
- Support the creation and maintenance of baseline budgets and cashflow plans
- Manage accruals, prepayments and month‑end reporting cycles
Forecasting & Performance Insight
- Produce detailed cost‑to‑complete forecasts and keep them updated as projects evolve
- Work with project teams to reflect progress, risks and programme changes
- Highlight early signs of overspend and recommend corrective actions
- Prepare clear dashboards and performance summaries for senior stakeholders
Commercial & Contract Support
- Build a strong understanding of contract structures and commercial obligations
- Review supplier payment applications and ensure alignment with milestones
- Support the assessment of variations, claims and compensation events
- Ensure all changes are properly authorised and reflected in financial forecasts
Supplier & Claim Management
- Validate contractor invoices and ensure supporting evidence is in place
- Track variations and claims, ensuring appropriate provisions are made
- Provide financial analysis to support dispute resolution where required
Risk, Governance & Compliance
- Feed financial insight into project risk registers
- Quantify exposure from delays, inflation or supply chain challenges
- Ensure compliance with internal controls and audit requirements
Collaboration & Continuous Improvement
- Work closely with Project Managers, Engineers, Procurement and Commercial teams
- Support board‑level reporting and investment updates
- Drive improvements in reporting, systems usage and financial processes
What You'll Bring
- Strong background in construction project accounting (energy, utilities or infrastructure ideal)
- Solid understanding of WBS structures, cost‑loaded programmes and project networks
- Experience managing multi‑million‑pound capital projects
- Commercially aware with experience handling variations and contract administration
- Advanced Excel skills and confidence with ERP/project accounting systems
- Professional accounting qualification (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) preferred
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