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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial reporting, audits, and budget management in local government.
- Company: Join a dynamic local government team focused on financial excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public finance while leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: CCAB qualified with experience in senior finance roles and local government.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to influence financial strategies.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Your new role:
- Lead production of statutory accounts, VAT, and government returns.
- Manage internal and external audit relationships and ensure timely resolution of queries.
- Oversee strategic capital planning and corporate budget monitoring.
- Lead on the monitoring and management of the Collection Fund, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and robust forecasting.
- Lead the production of Group Accounts, ensuring consolidation across council subsidiaries in compliance with statutory requirements.
- Work collaboratively with the Head of Treasury to monitor and support the delivery of the Investment and Acquisition Strategy (IAS) programme.
- Drive improvements in financial systems, reporting, and controls.
- Provide sound technical accounting advice to senior leaders and Members.
- Lead a team of finance professionals and ensure robust staff development.
What We're Looking For:
- CCAB qualified with significant post-qualification experience in a senior finance role.
- Strong expertise in local government finance, audit, and capital accounting.
- Proven track record of leading high-performing teams and managing complex financial operations.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels.
- Experience of system and process improvement, and ability to interpret and apply financial legislation.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Contact Detail:
Hays Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest local government finance regulations and practices. This will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a rapidly changing field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in local government finance. Attend relevant seminars or workshops where you can meet people already working in similar roles, as they might provide insights or even referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams and improved financial systems in your previous roles. Being able to articulate your experience with tangible results will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and mission. Understanding our culture and how it aligns with your professional philosophy can help you convey why you're a great fit during any discussions or interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your CCAB qualifications and relevant experience in local government finance. Emphasise your leadership skills and any specific achievements in managing financial operations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities of the Chief Accountant role. Discuss your experience with statutory accounts, audit relationships, and team management, showcasing how you can drive improvements in financial systems.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your expertise in capital accounting and your ability to interpret financial legislation. Mention any experience you have with system and process improvements, as this is crucial for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for a Chief Accountant.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Showcase Your Qualifications
Make sure to highlight your CCAB qualification and any relevant post-qualification experience. Be prepared to discuss how your background aligns with the requirements of the Chief Accountant role, especially in local government finance.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team of finance professionals, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Discuss your approach to staff development and how you foster high performance within your team.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to statutory accounts, VAT, and audit processes. Brush up on your knowledge of financial legislation and be ready to provide sound technical advice, as this will be crucial in your role.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for influencing at all levels. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex financial operations or improvements in systems and processes.
