Group Financial Accountant
Killygarry Co Cavan
Lakeland Dairies Co-operative Society Limited (The Group) is the second largest dairy processor on the island of Ireland. The business is complex and ambitious with a milk supply pool of 2 billion litres of milk, drawn from over 3,200 family farms across 16 counties.
With the most modern dairy manufacturing facilities in 6 locations on a cross-border basis, the Group supplies to a broad customer base including some of the world's foremost 'blue chip' companies across the dairy food ingredients, foodservice and consumer food channels on a domestic Ireland, UK, European and global basis. Internationally we export some 240 different products to over 100 countries worldwide.
The Group's Agribusiness Division (Lakeland Agri) operates a state-of-the-art Animal Feed Manufacturing Facility and is a leading and innovative provider of the highest quality feeds and agricultural inputs to dairy, beef and sheep farmers across the north and south of Ireland.
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Group Financial Accountant to join our Group Finance team. This is a pivotal role responsible for delivering accurate and timely financial reporting, managing statutory accounts, and driving improvements in financial processes across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
• Group Consolidation & Reporting: Lead the monthly consolidation of divisional performance and reconcile against management accounts.
• Central Functions Accounting: Manage the accounts process for central functions, including variance analysis and budget monitoring.
• Budget Preparation: Prepare annual budgets for central functions.
• Fixed Assets & Capitalisation: Set up and manage fixed asset projects, particularly for IT, and oversee monthly depreciation and reconciliations.
• Pension Management: Ensure timely pension payments for DC schemes and reconcile payroll data with the general ledger.
• Defined Benefit Reporting: Prepare the Lakeland DB Trustee Annual Report and manage quarterly EIOPA submissions.
• Statutory Accounts & Audit: Oversee the preparation and audit of statutory accounts, ensuring timely and accurate submissions to CRO/Companies House.
• Reporting Pack Development: Create and enhance the monthly group reporting pack for senior management.
• Month-End Timetable: Develop and manage the group month-end reporting timetable, including ERP period closures.
• Balance Sheet Reconciliations: Maintain and review monthly reconciliations.
• Chart of Accounts Management: Ensure efficient structure and maintenance of the chart of accounts.
• Process Improvement: Drive standardisation and automation in reporting and audit processes.
• Compliance & Governance: Uphold data protection and health & safety standards.
• Continuous Development: Engage in learning and development activities to enhance performance.
Key Competencies
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Structured, methodical, and self-motivated
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines
• Proactive in driving change and continuous improvement
Experience & Qualifications
Essential:
• Recognised accounting qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CPA or equivalent)
• Significant post-qualification experience in a large, fast-paced, multi-site organisation
• Strong knowledge of FRS 102
• Experience with ERP systems (preferably SAP)
• Proven track record managing external audits and statutory accounts
• Advanced Excel and analytical skills
• Strong organisational skills and team collaboration
Desirable:
• Experience in group consolidation and statutory group accounts
• Exposure to multi-currency and manufacturing environments
• Background in the food industry
Lakeland Dairies Ltd is committed to having an inclusive workplace where every employee feels they belong. If you require accommodations to be made during the recruitment process or have questions relating to accessibility, please contact us at or email