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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial strategies for housing accounts.
- Company: Join Cambridge City Council, a dedicated organisation impacting local communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holidays, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that makes a real difference in public finance.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification or extensive experience in HRA accounting required.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with one day in the office per week.
Location: Cambridge (Hybrid - 1 day per week)
Salary: 50,788 - 55,021
Hays Public Sector Finance is thrilled to be working in partnership with Cambridge City Council, offering an exceptional opportunity for a skilled Senior Finance Business Partner - HRA to join their finance team.
Your New Role
As a Senior Finance Business Partner - HRA with Cambridge City Council, who have a housing stock of roughly 7,500, you will play a crucial role in managing the council's Housing Revenue Account (HRA) activities. Your responsibilities will include:
- Preparing and monitoring HRA budgets and forecasts.
- Managing accounting for housing assets, including revaluations, disposals, and depreciation.
- Supporting the production of year-end accounts in compliance with public sector financial regulations (e.g., CIPFA Code of Practice).
- Providing expert advice on HRA projects, funding streams, and financial strategy.
- Overseeing HRA management activities, including cash flow forecasting, investment strategies, and compliance with relevant policies.
- Ensuring effective management of HRA balances to support operational needs.
- Collaborating with stakeholders to deliver insightful financial analysis.
What You'll Need to Succeed
- A professional accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or CIPFA) or extensive relevant experience in HRA accounting.
- In-depth knowledge of public sector accounting standards and HRA management frameworks.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to manage complex financial data and deliver accurate forecasts.
- Excellent communication skills to engage with stakeholders across Cambridge City Council and external partners.
- Proficiency in financial systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
What You'll Get in Return
Joining Cambridge City Council means becoming part of a dedicated and impactful organisation. Along with a competitive salary of 50,788 - 55,021, you'll benefit from:
- Flexible working arrangements to support your work-life balance.
- Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Generous holiday entitlement.
- Ongoing professional development opportunities.
Your Next Step
If you would like to apply, please contact Luke Grant-Maw (Senior Business Manager).
Finance Business Partner - HRA employer: Hays Accounts and Finance
Contact Detail:
Hays Accounts and Finance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Business Partner - HRA
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the public sector finance field, especially those who have experience with Housing Revenue Accounts. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the specific challenges they face.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest public sector accounting standards and regulations, particularly those related to HRA management. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in your field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your analytical skills in detail during interviews. Be ready to provide examples of how you've managed complex financial data and delivered accurate forecasts in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Cambridge City Council's current projects and financial strategies. Understanding their priorities and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your expertise can directly contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Business Partner - HRA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Finance Business Partner - HRA position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your professional accountancy qualifications and any relevant experience in HRA accounting. Use specific examples to demonstrate your analytical skills and familiarity with public sector accounting standards.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, include examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in previous positions. This could be through collaborative projects or presentations.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the job. Use keywords from the job description to ensure your application stands out and aligns with what Cambridge City Council is looking for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Accounts and Finance
✨Showcase Your Qualifications
Make sure to highlight your professional accountancy qualification or relevant experience in HRA accounting. Be prepared to discuss how your background aligns with the specific requirements of the role.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Prepare examples that showcase your strong analytical skills. Discuss how you've managed complex financial data and delivered accurate forecasts in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since excellent communication skills are essential, think of instances where you've successfully engaged with stakeholders. Be ready to explain how you can collaborate effectively with both internal teams and external partners.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Public Sector Standards
Brush up on public sector accounting standards and the HRA management frameworks. Being knowledgeable about these will not only impress your interviewers but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
