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- Tasks: Lead financial management and provide expert advice to shape the future of our finance team.
- Company: Join East Lothian Council, a dynamic organisation committed to community and financial excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, hybrid options, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team making a real impact in local governance and finance.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with significant financial management experience.
- Other info: Part-time applications are welcome; must reside in the UK.
Job Description
Hourly rate of pay: £29.00 – £32.65
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Days and Hours of Work:
Monday – Friday, 09:00-17:00
Flexi time is applicable, and starting and finishing times are flexible.
To start October 2025.
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Applications will be accepted from those wishing to be considered for this role on a part-time basis. If you are applying for this role on a part time basis, please tell us in the Additional Information section of the application form.
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Principal Accountant – Capital, Treasury & Banking
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East Lothian Council is seeking a fully qualified accountant to join the team. The post will be based in Corporate Accounting and will support the financial management of the capital plan and the banking & treasury service.
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This is a critical post within the structure. There will be opportunities for the successful applicant to help shape the future direction of the team and this is an exciting time to join.
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Home / Hybrid Working Consideration
Applications for homeworking or hybrid working will be considered for this post, subject to a trial period and in accordance with East Lothian Council’s Home Working and Worksmart Policies which can be found here. Home or Hybrid working options can be discussed with candidates invited for interview. All applicants must live in the UK and will be expected to attend Council offices from time to time as required.
Job Details
As a senior member of the wider Finance Team, the Principal Accountant will be expected to:
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In collaboration with the Service Manager operationally manage the provision of professional technical financial advice across the Council identifying and delivering the strategic objectives for the Finance team and wider Finance service.
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Oversee the development and training of the Finance Team, ensuring the service has the appropriate skills, demonstrating continuous improvement, and is resourced to support the Council’s wider transformational change agenda.
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Play a key role in ensuring Council services are managing their resources as efficiently and effectively as possible.
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Please download the Job Outline/Person Specification (available under 'Job Attachments') for the full range of tasks and duties associated with this job. You will need to refer to these in order to complete the application form. You must ensure you meet every 'essential' criteria stated on the Person Specification to be considered for interview.
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The ‘East Lothian Way’– values and behaviours we expect our employees to demonstrate in their everyday work. Should you be invited to interview, you may be asked questions based on these behaviours. Please refer to the document via the link to familiarise yourself with them.
Job Requirements
Relevant Qualifications
Qualified accountant with membership of a CCAB (CIPFA/ACCA/CIMA/ICAS) professional accounting body, combined with substantial experience in a financial management role.
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Evidence of Continuing Professional Development.
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Level 2 Disclosure Clearance
This role requires Level 2 Disclosure Clearance. ELC will submit a Police Act Disclosure application on behalf of the preferred candidate and receipt of the subsequent certificate will be required prior to commencement.
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Please note:
If you have spent more than 3 months working or living outwith the UK in the last 5 years then you will also be required to present a copy of an overseas criminal record check. Details of how to apply and contact details can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Additional Information
For additional East Lothian Council employment information please click on the following link:
www.eastlothian.gov.uk/nonteachinginfo
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If you have any difficulties creating an account on MyJobScotland or applying for this post please contact the MyJobScotland support team via this link https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/contact-us.
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If you require further information about this vacancy, please call 01620 827868, or email us on recruitment@eastlothian.gov.uk
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Please note: We do not accept CV's (either electronically or by mail). All our vacancies must be applied for by fully completing the on-line application form. Although there is an ‘import data from my CV’ function on MyJobScotland, this only imports very limited data and should not be relied upon to complete the application form. If, for example, due to a disability, you are unable to complete the on-line application form you can contact us for a paper application via the telephone number or email address above.
Principal Accountant - EAL11566 employer: East Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
East Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Accountant - EAL11566
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the East Lothian Way values and behaviours. During the interview, you may be asked questions based on these, so understanding them will help you demonstrate how you align with the council's expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in financial management roles during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've contributed to strategic objectives and improved financial processes in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 3
If you're considering part-time work, make sure to mention this in the Additional Information section of your application. This shows flexibility and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for questions about your continuing professional development. Be ready to discuss any recent training or qualifications that demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the accounting field.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Accountant - EAL11566
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Job Requirements: Thoroughly read the job description and person specification for the Principal Accountant role. Make sure you understand the essential criteria and responsibilities, as you'll need to demonstrate how you meet these in your application.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application form to highlight your qualifications and experience that align with the requirements of the role. Use specific examples from your past work to illustrate your skills in financial management and team leadership.
Address Additional Information: If you're applying on a part-time basis or wish to discuss home or hybrid working options, clearly state this in the Additional Information section of the application form. Be concise but informative about your preferences.
Follow Submission Guidelines: Ensure you complete the online application form fully, as CVs are not accepted. Double-check all sections for accuracy and completeness before submitting. Remember, the application must be submitted through the MyJobScotland platform.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Lothian Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and person specification. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and required qualifications, as this will help you tailor your answers to demonstrate how your experience aligns with the role.
✨Showcase Your Qualifications
As a qualified accountant, be prepared to discuss your membership with a CCAB professional accounting body. Highlight your relevant experience in financial management and any continuing professional development you've undertaken to show your commitment to the field.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
The role involves working closely with the Service Manager and the Finance Team. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles, particularly in delivering strategic objectives or managing resources effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with 'The East Lothian Way'
Research the values and behaviours expected by East Lothian Council. Prepare to discuss how you embody these values in your work, as interviewers may ask questions based on them to assess your fit within the organisation.
