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- Tasks: Support financial management and planning for council services in a dynamic team environment.
- Company: Join West Lothian Council, dedicated to effective resource use and community service.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working arrangements and a supportive work-life balance.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-performing unit making a real impact in local governance.
- Qualifications: HNC in Accounting or related field; ATT membership or part-qualified accountancy preferred.
- Other info: Diverse applicants are encouraged, especially from under-represented backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Finance and Property Services plays a key role within the council including the delivery of frontline services to the public in West Lothian. As part of Finance and Property Services, the council’s Financial Management Unit (FMU) is recognised as a high performing unit with a key role in ensuring the council makes the most effective use of resources to support delivery of services to customers.
An opportunity has arisen within FMU for the recruitment of an Accounting Support Level 2 post to undertake a support role within the unit, providing a comprehensive range of financial management and planning support and advice to council services. This role contributes to a comprehensive range of financial services provided to senior officers, budget holders and elected members and is based in the Education service support team.
Key aspects of the role include:
- Financial and management accounting
- Development of financial strategy
- Option appraisal
- Providing financial advice
The post requires a sound level of accounting expertise and the ability to communicate effectively with finance colleagues and a wide range of staff throughout the council and in external organisations. The role will include opportunities to contribute proactively to cross cutting initiatives both within the Financial Management Unit and across the council.
You should also have the ability to operate successfully in a dynamic team working environment, with a proactive attitude and approach. The postholder will be expected to set and meet high quality performance standards and continually strive to surpass these standards for their own and the team performance.
The council supports flexible working to encourage the workforce to deliver critical services whilst maintaining a work-life balance and this currently allows a hybrid working arrangement for this post. You must have a HNC in Accounting or related subject, membership of ATT or part qualified accountancy qualification, with a knowledge of local government finance; however, experience of working in a finance capacity in the public sector is not essential.
Accounting Support Level 2, West Lothian Civic Centre, 490.55 - WEL08985 employer: West Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
West Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounting Support Level 2, West Lothian Civic Centre, 490.55 - WEL08985
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial management practices used in local government. Understanding how councils operate financially will give you an edge during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the Financial Management Unit. They can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your proactive attitude by preparing examples of how you've contributed to team success in previous roles. This will show that you can meet and exceed performance standards.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the council's current financial strategies and initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their goals will allow you to discuss how you can contribute effectively to their objectives during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounting Support Level 2, West Lothian Civic Centre, 490.55 - WEL08985
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Accounting Support Level 2 position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these aspects.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to emphasise your HNC in Accounting or any related qualifications. If you are a member of ATT or have a part-qualified accountancy qualification, mention this prominently in your CV and cover letter.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires effective communication with various stakeholders, provide examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to communicate financial information clearly and effectively.
Express Your Proactive Attitude: The job description mentions the need for a proactive approach. In your application, include specific instances where you took initiative in previous roles, especially in team settings or when contributing to projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of the Accounting Support Level 2 position. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the specific tasks mentioned, such as financial management and providing advice.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role requires effective communication with various stakeholders, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully communicated complex financial information. This will demonstrate your ability to engage with both finance colleagues and non-finance staff.
✨Highlight Your Proactive Attitude
The council values a proactive approach, so be ready to share instances where you took initiative in previous roles. Discuss how you contributed to team projects or improved processes, showcasing your ability to work dynamically within a team.
✨Prepare for Questions on Local Government Finance
Even if you don't have direct experience in public sector finance, it's beneficial to familiarise yourself with local government finance principles. Prepare to discuss any relevant knowledge you have and express your willingness to learn more about this area.
