Interim Head of Accounting
An experienced accounting manager in place within days.
When the books must close on time
Nextt & Mason places experienced interim heads of accounting in companies across the Nordics within days. Leaders who secure a stable monthly close, a correct annual report and good cooperation with the auditors.
When do you need an interim head of accounting?
An interim head of accounting is the right choice when the role is vacant at a critical time, or when the accounting function needs an experienced leader to restore control. These are the situations we meet most often:
- The head of accounting leaves or goes on parental leave or sick leave
- The annual report and the audit are approaching, and the accounting team lacks leadership
- The monthly close takes too long, or reconciliations and errors keep piling up
- A new ERP system must be implemented, or accounting must move to a shared service centre
- Accounts must be merged after an acquisition, or a divested unit needs its own accounting
What an interim head of accounting does
An interim head of accounting reports to the CFO and gets a clear mandate to lead the accounting function. The assignment typically focuses on:
- A stable monthly close. Deadlines, reconciliations and routines are put in place, so the numbers are ready on time.
- Annual report and audit. The annual report is prepared in close cooperation with the auditors, with the aim of a clean audit opinion.
- Processes and controls. Internal controls, VAT, tax and compliance with accounting rules are reviewed and strengthened.
- Handover. Procedures and status are documented, so the next head of accounting takes over a function in good order.
Accounting is part of our CFO services. You can read more about how interim management works on our overview page.
Clients we helped
Browse Interim Head of Accounting assignments where we helped clients with Instant Leadership in Times of Change.
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FAQ: Interim head of accounting
What is an interim head of accounting?
An interim head of accounting is an experienced accounting leader who heads a company's accounting function for a defined period. The leader is responsible for bookkeeping, the monthly close, the annual report, the audit and internal controls.
What is the difference between a head of accounting, a business controller and a CFO?
A head of accounting is responsible for correct accounting, the monthly close and the annual report. A business controller works close to the business with follow-up and analysis. A CFO is responsible for the entire finance function and sits in the executive team. We place all three, and the briefing tells us which role your situation calls for.
Can an interim head of accounting take charge of the annual report and the audit?
Yes. Our interim heads of accounting have led many year-end closes. They set the timetable, prepare the documentation, handle the dialogue with the auditors and follow up on their comments.
How long does an interim head of accounting assignment usually last?
Most assignments last between three and nine months. The duration is often tied to a year-end close, a period of leave, a system implementation or an integration.