Who we are

Chestnut is a collection of pubs with rooms and Big House hotels across the East of England. Alongside our hospitality portfolio, we also operate a number of commercial brands.

Our story began in 2012 with The Packhorse Inn, Moulton — and today, we continue to grow. Rooted in the East, we’re passionate about creating memorable experiences, championing local communities, and building a brand that celebrates people, produce, and place.

The opportunity

We’re looking for a Financial Accountant to join our team on a 12-month fixed-term contract (maternity cover), playing a key role in supporting the financial integrity and governance of the Group.

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, you’ll take ownership of core areas including statutory reporting, tax compliance, audit and treasury. You’ll work closely with the wider finance team and external advisors, ensuring the Group remains well-controlled, compliant, and audit-ready.

This is a broad and hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys variety, takes pride in technical accuracy, and is comfortable managing multiple priorities across a growing, multi-entity business.

What you’ll be doing

Preparing and submitting Group VAT returns, managing compliance and ad hoc VAT matters
Reviewing statutory accounts and Corporation Tax returns across all group entities
Acting as the primary contact for the external audit, coordinating deliverables and resolving queries
Producing the Group year-end accounts and annual report, including financial analysis and commentary
Managing company secretarial and governance processes, including statutory filings and shareholder activity
Overseeing loan notes, fixed asset registers, and treasury-related workstreams
Supporting charity accounting, including cashflow and year-end reporting
Responding to ad hoc finance queries and supporting the wider business where needed

What we’re looking for

Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or equivalent)
Strong experience in UK statutory accounting, VAT and Corporation Tax
Experience working within a group or multi-entity structure
Proven experience managing or leading external audits
Highly organised, detail-oriented, and comfortable working to multiple deadlines
A proactive, hands-on approach with the ability to work independently

Desirable skills

Experience with share schemes, loan notes or shareholder transactions
Exposure to charity accounting
Experience contributing to annual reports or financial commentary

Our benefits

Working at Chestnut means being part of a business that cares about people and places. Alongside a supportive culture and opportunities for growth, we offer a range of great benefits, including:

Competitive salary
50% discount across all Chestnut pubs and hotels for you and your guests
25% discount on retail brands
Access to our team wellbeing programme and mental health support
Development opportunities, including professional training and career progression
Company events and team socials celebrating our people and successes
Hybrid working with flexibility around our Bury St Edmunds office
28 days’ holiday (including bank holidays), increasing with length of service
Pension scheme and company benefits platform

Why Chestnut?

At Chestnut, we believe great businesses are built on strong foundations. You’ll join a collaborative and commercially minded finance team, where your work has real impact and visibility across the Group.

Ready to join us?

If you’re looking for a role where you can take ownership of key financial processes and contribute to a growing business — we’d love to hear from you.

INDCP

Financial Accountant - 12 Months Maternity Cover